These achievements were formally recognised in May 2006 when SUMO won the British Franchise Association Franchisor of the Year Daily Express Brand Builder Award 2006 and was one of three companies shortlisted as a finalist in the prestigious Specialist in Construction Industry Awards 2006.

SUMO - Subsurface Utilities Mark Out

Saves time, saves money, saves lives

SUMO was specifically created to meet the market need for a professional underground surveying service to minimize the risk of utility strikes and their associated costs

Utilising our exclusive GPR system, the SUMO franchise network can detect all types of underground services regardless of the material including metallic pipes, electrical mains, and uniquely, PE ducts, fibre optic cables, plastic gas mains, water services, clay drainage systems and concrete sewers.

As a result, business is booming with group turnover doubling year on year, every franchisee exceeding their targets and a constant requirement for new franchisees to meet customer demand throughout the country.

We ensure that all SUMO franchises have access to the best equipment, methodology, training and support systems to enable their businesses to sucees in a demanding marketplace.

Russ Sampson joined the network in November 2003. Initially providing the service in a hands-on role, Russ beat his first year targets and during year two brought on board his first employee.

"I took someone on to take care of operating the van and equipment, allowing me to concentrate on business development," he explains.

"I've continued to hit my targets and, with myemployee fully occupied, am at the stage of bringing on a second employee. I'm working harder than ever, but everything I put in I'm getting out - I'm reaping the reward of being my own boss."