Re: If ESA was smart
"No one comes close to SpaceX for lots of cheap launches in quick succession landing back at the launch site, or nearby. Nobody."
Is there even a need for a rocket factory near the intended launch site when your rockets and bootsers can land at a different landing site than that from which up-go'ed. You could even save money by doing a full on launch and then "simply" landing where you next need it :-)
In reality, of course it depends on how much checking and refurbishment is needed after each launch and you still need the non-return parts to be shipped to the launch site. Starship may "just" need the catching arms and fuel supply at the new launch site.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
