From two vans and a pager to £2.5 million: Dyno-Rod's Carl Phillips wins Great British Franchisee Award 2026

A South Wales businessman who started his Dyno-Rod franchise with just two vans and a pager has been named a winner of the Great British Franchisee Awards 2026, recognising almost 25 years of business success, innovation and dedication.

Carl Phillips, who operates Dyno-Rod's plumbing franchise across Cardiff, Swansea and Newport, has transformed the business from a small operation into one of the largest and most established franchises in the network, employing 30 people and generating annual turnover of £2.5 million.

His remarkable journey began in October 2001 when he and his late father purchased the franchise, officially opening for business in January 2002. On their very first day, they completed 18 jobs and worked until midnight.

Today, the business operates from a 3,800 sq ft premises on a 1.5-acre site near Cardiff, complete with its own training room, workshop and yard. Turnover has grown from £210,000 in its first year to £2.5 million, with the business remaining consistently profitable throughout its expansion.

But Carl's success has not come without challenges.

In 2004, he suffered a serious accident, breaking his leg in five places and requiring multiple operations and lengthy hospital stays. Determined to keep the business running, he continued preparing quotes and drainage surveys from his hospital bed.

His hands-on approach has been a defining feature of his leadership. When the franchise expanded into plumbing, Carl attended night school twice a week for two years to gain his NVQ Level 2 qualification, believing he should never ask an engineer to undertake work he would not be prepared to do himself.

He has also been at the forefront of innovation within the Dyno-Rod network, becoming one of the first franchisees to introduce thermal imaging and tracer-gas leak detection.

His business was selected by the Water Research Council to trial a new pipe-bursting repair method, which subsequently gained approval for use across the network. His team's specialist expertise has also secured work with organisations including Welsh Water and Cadw, with projects ranging from complex leak detection to emergency water mains repairs at the historic Tintern Abbey.

Carl's achievements have previously earned him Dyno-Rod Franchisee of the Year awards for drainage in 2006 and plumbing in 2016, alongside recognition for customer service, health and safety and brand ambassadorship.

However, he is quick to acknowledge the people behind his success.

Carl said: “As a dedicated Dyno franchise owner, I am grateful that I was chosen to represent the brand, and it's always a great accomplishment to be recognised. Of course, this could not have been achieved without the hard work and dedication of my staff.”

Developing and retaining employees has been central to his approach. New engineers receive structured training and mentoring, with opportunities to gain accredited qualifications and progress into more specialist roles.

The loyalty this has inspired is reflected in his workforce, with his longest-serving employee having been with the business for 22 years.

Carl is also a passionate supporter of grassroots rugby league, having sponsored his local junior club's shirts for 16 years, benefiting around 350 children each season. His support has extended to Wales Under-19s and several junior teams beyond his franchise territory.

His commitment to the wider Dyno-Rod network is equally impressive. He regularly welcomes engineers from other franchises for specialist training and has contributed to steering groups and initiatives designed to improve standards across the brand.

Lee Parry, Network Performance & Strategy Manager at Dyno-Rod, praised both Carl's commercial achievements and his contribution to the network.

He said: “Carl is an outstanding example of what can be achieved through passion, determination and a commitment to excellence. He has consistently delivered exceptional results, embraced innovation and played an important role in strengthening the Dyno-Rod brand across South & West Wales.

“Dyno-Rod are incredibly proud of his success and delighted to see him recognised with this award. It is a thoroughly deserved achievement.”

The judges of the Great British Franchisee Awards were particularly impressed by Carl's business growth, leadership and commitment to both his employees and the wider franchise network.

They commented: “Carl is an exceptionally deserving winner of a Great British Franchisee Award, having demonstrated outstanding business growth, operational excellence and an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.

“What particularly impressed the judges was Carl's forward-thinking approach to business development, his investment in staff and technology, and his determination to build a sustainable business for the future.

“He is also a fantastic ambassador for the Dyno-Rod brand, generously sharing his knowledge and experience with fellow franchisees while making a positive contribution to his local community. His ambition, resilience and commitment to raising standards make him a truly worthy winner.”

Despite his considerable achievements, Carl is continuing to look ahead, with plans to expand specialist plumbing services and strengthen relationships with British Gas, Welsh Water and other key partners.

From two vans and a pager to a thriving multimillion-pound operation, his Great British Franchisee Award is recognition of a remarkable business journey and the lasting impact he has made on his staff, customers, community and the wider franchising industry.

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