In the face of evolving geopolitics, trade agreements, tariffs and environmental considerations, in-country manufacturing – also known as domestic or onshore – is of growing importance to our customers. Considered a more controlled approach to the production of goods, in-country manufacturing unlocks many unseen benefits and can mitigate numerous international risks, motivating more of our customers to seek guidance on how to access this increasingly critical service.
To explore how 13 global LoneStar Group business units operate as one to surpass our customers’ in-country manufacturing requirements across key markets, we spoke to Steve Kettle, VP MENA APAC, part of the LoneStar Group. Responsible for leading international sales teams and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, Steve has first-hand experience of unlocking the full potential of in-country manufacturing across the globe.

Hi Steve, what makes our In-country manufacturing services so compelling for customers?

The key factors include shorter lead times, optimised responsiveness, enhanced quality control and safety standards, local job creation, ESG advantages, supply chain resilience and an enhanced ability to stay ahead of global trade dynamics.
There’s a myriad of details and additional industry contexts around each of these factors, which I’d encourage people to discuss with our team. But to summarise, we’re fully committed to aligning with our customers’ evolving strategic needs by providing in-country manufacturing solutions anywhere in the world, driven by unmatched flexibility, responsiveness and expertise.

There’s an increasing focus on import tariffs in 2025. Can our in-country manufacturing capabilities save our customers money?

Yes. It offers our customers a clear strategic advantage, enabling them to navigate a highly volatile geopolitical landscape that’s full of unpredictable global trade policies. Recently, this volatility has risen further with a range of new duties, levies and tariffs across marketplaces. Manufacturers in the USA who rely on steel imports are also experiencing increased operational and supply costs.
In this context, the LoneStar Group is uniquely positioned to help customers mitigate costs by accessing our in-country manufacturing and global supply chain capabilities located across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Australasia, plus Central and Southeast Asia. Customers operating within these markets can enjoy greater supply chain resilience and potentially avoid the brunt of international trade tariffs.

Does in-country manufacturing benefit certain industries more than others?

Our in-country capabilities are in high demand across numerous critical industries, particularly those requiring precision-engineered, high-performance approved and accredited components for mission-critical applications.

For arguments sake, let’s look at defence. A major contractor might require locally produced fasteners for military applications to ensure ultimate supply chain resilience and compliance with national security regulations. The nuclear industry also demands the highest quality components delivered with stringent safety requirements. In-country manufacturing therefore becomes an attractive, trusted and proven option for our customers.

Can in-country manufacturing positively influence the ESG strategies of the LoneStar Group and our customers?
Absolutely. By embracing in-country manufacturing with a focus on ESG principles, the LoneStar Group and our customers can achieve sustainable growth, enhance operational efficiency and maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly ESG-conscious market.

The ESG benefits of in-country manufacturing include reduced carbon emissions through decreased transportation needs, the adoption of localised circular economy principles, more efficient use of resources, waste reduction, increased social responsibility with oversight of local working conditions and improved supply chain traceability. All vital elements for supporting our customers’ sustainability goals.

What can customers expect when accessing in-country manufacturing from us?

We’re able to tailor all our unrivalled global capabilities and a comprehensive suite of services to surpass our customers’ specific needs; whether in-country manufacturing or otherwise. As a trusted partner, we collaborate with customers on a one-to-one basis. Navigating challenges together to find appropriate solutions and deliver outstanding results at speed, anywhere on the planet.

I’d encourage our existing customers, or any prospects to contact me directly to discuss the benefits of in-country manufacturing in detail.