Why Partnering with a Nearshore, UK, Independent Manufacturer Like Borg & Overström Gives You the Edge
In today’s rapidly shifting global trade environment, supply chain stability, reliability, and control are more critical than ever. While many businesses still rely heavily on Far East supply —leading to headaches, delays, and mounting uncertainty— Borg & Overström has taken a different path. As manufacturers of premium drinking water dispensers and integrated tap systems, back in 2018 we stepped back our reliance on the Far East, and built a nearshore UK manufacturing solution, that offers our customers consistency, quality, and long-term confidence in their trade partnerships with us.
Our nearshore journey
Borg & Overström’s transition to a nearshore model began back in 2018, driven by the desire to take greater control of our supply chain and reduce reliance on the Far East. Noticing the growing risks associated with overseas production – such as long lead times and rising freight costs, we wanted to retain control of our products and supply chain and quality and regain our independence.
By 2022, we had successfully launched our nearshore UK manufacturing operations. Today, 80–90% of our supplies come from within a 200-mile radius of our manufacturing plant, supported by an enhanced zero-to-landfill production plant and in-house R&D team. The T-series was our first Maktens Borg products, signifying our independence and commitment to quality and sustainable manufacture.
This was closely followed by the E-series, our first water dispensers to be hand built in the UK with our Maktens Borg marque of assurance. This shift to being an independent UK manufacturer has dramatically increased our agility and strengthened the quality control across every stage of production, allowing us to continue to grow our global trade with confidence.
Navigating tariff instability with confidence
The global trade landscape continues to fluctuate, especially in regard to tariffs. As a UK-based, independent manufacturer, we have positioned ourselves to offer stability. Unlike many competitors who still depend on Far East imports, Borg & Overström is not exposed to the same degree of risk—and that means our customers aren’t either.
Where others face potential shipping delays, increased costs, or product unavailability, we deliver consistent pricing, dependable lead times, and a stable product range. This independence coupled with our trade-only guarantee allows us to build powerful trading partnerships around the world.
Quality, consistency and control – guaranteed
Quality, consistency and control are what you get from independent, nearshore UK manufacturing. With our nearshore supply chain, Borg & Overström has gained significant control over every link in our production process. That means:
- Quality assurance: We partner explicitly with top-tier suppliers to ensure products consistently meet exceptional quality standards, upholding excellence at every stage.
- Reliable availability: Due to the localised supply chain, products are manufactured and delivered on schedule, without disruption.
- Stable pricing: Localised approach allows the ability to avoid sudden cost hikes and pass that consistency on to customers.
- Responsible supplier: Low carbon footprint, control of our processes, people and facilities.
- Confidence in supply: Reduced chance of being caught off guard by tariff impositions, global shipping crises or material shortages.
Making it easier to do business globally
With over 20 years of global experience, Borg & Overström is dedicated to making business easy, reliable, and efficient. As a 100% trade-only supplier, we put our distributors first, offering the support, stability, and partnership needed for long-term success. Our nearshore UK manufacturing setup ensures shorter lead times, consistent costs, and dependable quality—removing uncertainty and making it easier than ever to do business with us.
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