JAPANESE corporation Mitsui has taken a 25% stake in Global Energy Group (GEG) in what is believed to be a multimillion-pound deal.

The MacGregor family, including Ross County Football Club and GEG chairman Roy MacGregor, will continue to hold the majority shareholding in the business.

The investment terms of the agreement have not been revealed.

The intention is for Mitsui to help expand GEG's manufacturing work for the oil and gas and renewable energy industries.

Mr MacGregor said: "The chemistry between us is extremely good and I have no doubt this alliance will add value to our business and Mitsui's investment will assist us in the delivery of both our home and international business plans.

"We believe this new chapter in our development will see us build on our strong track record by creating more job and career opportunities and bringing new skills and knowledge to Scotland."

GEG employs 4300 around the world but has its main offices in Inverness and Aberdeen.

It also owns the Nigg fabrication yard in Easter Ross.

Two executives from Tokyo-based Mitsui, which has 154 offices across 67 countries, will join GEG's board of directors.

Mitsui's European senior vice president Noboru Katsu said: "We do not see this investment as purely Mitsui taking an equity share in the business, but rather we see ourselves as an industrial partner to aid the industrial growth of Global."