Let's be honest, drainage isn't always glamorous, but it's essential.
Drainage isn’t the first industry most people think about when they’re considering buying a franchise.
But while trends come and go, blocked drains, pump failures and drainage emergencies aren’t going anywhere.
For more than 40 years, Metro Rod has built a reputation as one of the UK’s leading drainage specialists by tackling the jobs others would rather avoid. That’s why businesses across the country rely on us when they need expert support, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The result? A franchise opportunity built around an essential service, repeat customer demand and a proven business model.
Whether you’re looking to build a team, create long-term wealth or take greater control of your future, Metro Rod provides the support, systems and national brand to help you grow.
The best people for the worst jobs. Could you be one of them?
We are increasing market share, with more engineers than ever before and new franchisees regularly coming on board – would you like to join us?
Two Ways to Join the Metro Rod Network
New Franchise Territories
Launch a new drainage franchise in one of our available territories. You’ll receive training, support and access to existing customer opportunities while building your own team and growing your business.
Franchise Resales
Purchase an established Metro Rod franchise complete with operational infrastructure, existing customers and experienced teams already in place.
Both options provide access to the same trusted Metro Rod brand, support network and growth opportunities.
There's No Such Thing as a Typical Metro Rod Franchisee
Some of our franchisees came from corporate careers. Others have engineering, operational or technical backgrounds. Some wanted to build a business from the ground up, while others were looking for a proven route into business ownership.
They all arrived for different reasons.
The one thing they have in common? They’re ambitious people who saw an opportunity in an industry that businesses will always need.
Which one sounds most like you?
The Builder
You thrive on growth, leadership and creating something significant. You’re motivated by building a team, winning new customers and scaling a business with long-term value.
Typical Characteristics:
- Ambitious and growth-focused
- Strong leadership skills
- Motivated by business ownership
- Interested in building a valuable asset
- Comfortable managing teams
Why Metro Rod?
Our territory-based franchise model gives you the opportunity to grow a commercial business backed by a trusted national brand. With training, support and access to national contracts, you’ll have the foundations needed to build a successful operation.
The Corporate Escapee
You’re successful in your career but want more control over your income, work-life balance and long-term future. Rather than continuing to build someone else’s business, you’re ready to invest in your own.
Typical Characteristics:
- Commercially minded
- Strategic thinker
- Looking for greater independence
- Interested in long-term wealth creation
- Values structure and support
Why Metro Rod?
A Metro Rod franchise combines the independence of business ownership with the support of an established franchise network, reducing many of the risks associated with starting from scratch.
The Technical Operator
You understand operational excellence, customer service and technical standards. Now you’re ready to take ownership of the business itself.
Typical Characteristics:
- Technical or engineering background
- Process-driven
- Quality focused
- Practical problem solver
- Service-led mindset
Why Metro Rod?
You don’t need prior drainage experience, but if you already understand service delivery and operations, you’ll find our systems, training and support structure provide a strong platform for growth.
The Community Builder
You believe in building relationships, supporting customers and creating opportunities within your local area.
Typical Characteristics:
- Relationship driven
- Customer focused
- Community minded
- Strong communication skills
- Interested in sustainable growth
Why Metro Rod?
Our franchisees build long-term relationships with businesses across their territory while benefiting from national brand recognition and ongoing support.
The Challenger
You’re driven by achievement and motivated by results. You see opportunities where others see obstacles and want a business that rewards ambition.
Typical Characteristics:
- Highly motivated
- Competitive mindset
- Results focused
- Entrepreneurial
- Opportunity driven
Why Metro Rod?
Our established systems, exclusive territories and national support provide the platform. What you do with that opportunity is up to you.
The Partnership
You believe great businesses are built through complementary skills and shared ambition.
Typical Characteristics:
- Collaborative mindset
- Shared business goals
- Combination of commercial and operational strengths
- Long-term commitment
- Strong communication
Why Metro Rod?
Many successful franchise businesses are built by partners combining different skill sets. Metro Rod provides the support structure to help turn shared ambition into a thriving business.
Why Buy a Metro Rod Franchise?
Because somebody has to do the worst jobs.
Commercial drainage may not be glamorous, but it is essential. From restaurants and retailers to hospitals and major facilities management providers, organisations across the UK depend on expert drainage services to keep their operations running.
That’s why Metro Rod franchisees benefit from:
- An essential service sector
- A trusted national brand
- National contracts and recurring work
- Comprehensive training and support
- Exclusive territories
- Proven growth potential
Not every industry can say demand is always flowing. Ours can.
Speak to Tracey
If you’d like to learn more, have a confidential conversation with Tracey Cockerton, Franchise Recruitment Manager. Tracey can talk you through the available opportunities, explain the franchise journey, and help you understand whether Metro Rod could be the right opportunity for you.
What Franchisees Say About Metro Rod
Read More Case Studies Here“I wanted to take a moment to express my deep gratitude for all the support, guidance, and patience you have shown towards me throughout the recruitment process at Metro Rod, It has taken me a bit longer than I would have liked to send you this email, life has become quite busy. The business plan has already gone out the window and the initial intention not to seek growth completely bypassed.
Your assistance and encouragement have truly made a difference for me, and I am incredibly appreciative of the time and effort you have invested in helping me navigate the various stages of the selection and recruitment process. Your thorough explanations and prompt responses have been invaluable, and I am grateful for your dedication to assisting me every step of the way.
I am excited about the future at Metro Rod, and I am confident that your guidance has helped me present myself in the best possible light. Your professionalism and kindness have made this process smoother and more enjoyable, and I am thankful to have had the opportunity to work with someone as supportive and knowledgeable as you.
Once again, thank you for all your assistance, support, and patience. I look forward to the possibility of further collaboration in the future.”
Graham McGuinness, Owner of Metro Rod Dundee
“Tracey was my first contact when I enquired about a Metro Rod resale opportunity. She knew her stuff, was easy to talk to and made what was a huge personal decision so much easier.
I always felt Tracey made every effort to make the process and negotiations as transparent as possible and was a great help.”
Dan Rhodes, Owner of Metro Rod South Yorkshire
“My wife and I have been running Metro Rod (Norwich) since 2001, and over that time have built up a strong and loyal client base.”
Shaun O’Brian, Metro Rod franchisee (Norwich)
Franchisee FAQs
Who are we looking to work with?
The Metro Rod success story is all about real people achieving real results. Our 43+ Metro Rod professional members are all driven individuals, family teams, or partnerships, with a passion for providing a first-class service.
If you have strong business acumen, good people skills, initial investment funds* and the ambition to own a highly successful, local franchise business, we think you’ll fit in perfectly! Previous careers involving leadership, business development, project management, commercial selling or civil engineering all have very relevant transferable skills, but we can provide industry-leading training in all aspects of running a commercial drainage company.
How much does it cost?
Our entry level price for a Metro Rod Franchise location is £50k, we currently have 10 of these opportunities available. Finance is available to help spread the cost. You will also need to consider the start-up costs of a new business, including drainage vans. Contact us for more information and we will do our best to find a solution that helps you on the road to business ownership.
Established franchise resales are priced individually. See our list of available locations and request more information.
Our Metro Plumb franchise requires a lower minimum investment, starting from £8,000 and requires the applicant to be a qualified plumber or be able to partner with one. Please see our Metro Plumb website for more details.
Do I need to know about the drainage industry?
For a resale no, we have a complete training program that can support you in learning every aspect of the business. They also come with a complete team of staff, managing the day to day.
For entry level areas, experience in drainage or a connected industry such as civil engineering, construction, plant and machinery a benefit.
As a management franchise, many of your skills and experiences will be transferrable. All we ask is you have the ambition and drive to grow the business, and we will support you with the rest.
What is the average gross profit for a Metro Rod business?
Approx. 30%* this is an average across all our UK businesses. Differences can occur, but this is a general guide to what can be expected.
*This is not guaranteed
How long do franchisees stay with Metro Rod?
We are proud to say we have some franchisees that have been with us for more than 20 years. The current average is 13 years.
Who are Metro Rod’s customers?
Primarily commercial clients require our services. However, there is an element of domestic work, and we welcome efforts to grow this market.
National Account work is generated by Metro Rod’s Support Centre; these are large, sometimes nationwide contracts. Local commercial customers would be found and managed by the local franchisee.
Can I get help with finance to buy a business?
We have a great relationship with HSBC and can introduce you to a franchise funding specialist who knows our business. On average, they support you with 70% LTV funding.
How do Metro Rod receive their remuneration?
Royalties known as MSF are deducted from the sales. We have several relief schemes that provide kickbacks to support franchisee growth. The better you do, the better we do a true win-win partnership.
What is the average job value?
£240 is the average job value. However, work can vary from a simple call out and first-time fix to requiring further recommendation work for complete repairs. No two jobs are ever the same; it keeps things exciting and provides no limits on what you can earn.
How many engineers do I need?
Metro Rod is a 24/7 business, so the minimum requirement is 2 engineers and 2 vans. As a rule of thumb, you require another engineer for every £100k of turnover.
How do I source Vans and Equipment?
Many of the businesses come with existing vans and equipment; however, we have several suppliers we work closely with if you need to replace or add additional equipment. Our technical team is on hand if you need them to ensure you get the best value for money.
Our connections can help secure discounts and before market offers.
Is Metro Rod a BFA member?
Yes, Metro Rod are proud long-term members of the BFA.
How long is Metro Rod’s Franchise Agreement?
5 years with an option to renew for a further 5 years. The process is easy. We require your latest business plan for the next term.
Average sales of a Metro Rod franchisee
£900,000 with 35% of franchisees now achieving sales of over £1m, and several achieving sales of over £1.5m.
How does the process work?
Get in touch via our web form, email, or telephone. Our Franchise Recruitment Manager will provide more information and when you are ready to organise a call to chat through your plans. You will have a single dedicated contact throughout the whole process, on hand to answer as many questions for as long as it takes. We can look at the individual accounts for the business you are buying, so you are confident of exactly how it’s performing. We can support you with finance and business planning, arrange your training and support you through the takeover process.
Can I talk to other franchisees?
Yes, you are very welcome to do this. In fact, we encourage it; it’s a great way to get reassurance and ask questions of the people that were once in the same position as you.
How long is the training?
We provide a tailored course that combines some external courses time spent with the support centre team, and we will even send you out into the field. Coupled with visits to other depos, we try to provide you with a well-rounded experience that gives you the confidence to step into your new role.
Designed to suit you, whether you’re keen to complete it as quickly as possible or spread it over several weeks, we can work around you.
What support does the franchisor give?
We are here for you, each department, whether it’s the call handler in the 24/7 call centre. The marketing team is developing the next online campaign, IT creating reports to give you a better insight into your business, or our sales team winning the next contract. You have a large team of dedicated individuals all busy behind the scenes supporting you.
Is it only drainage work?
We have a wide range of services, follow this link to read about them and a brief description of what they include.
Are you part of Metro Plumb?
Metro Plumb is part of our group providing a complete plumbing service to customers. You are invited to explore both brands, as they offer different opportunities. Please visit the website for more information.

We are proud to be members of the British Franchise Association and are fully committed to their code of ethical franchising.