Starting your business as a franchise of a reputed brand or chain of stores gives you certain advantages compared to starting a business on your own. If you live in India and looking forward to buying a franchise, this article can be a big help to you. Here we list down a selected list of the best profitable franchise opportunities in India that can be started at a low cost.
What is a Franchise Business?
The main idea of the franchise business is that a reputed brand or business known as the franchisor enters into a contract with the franchisee under which the franchisee is given the license to do the business in the name of the franchisor.
Thus the franchisee can use the brand value, market goodwill, and other support. In return, the franchisee pays an initial fee and continues to pay yearly fees based on the sales. The terms of the franchise vary from business to business.
However, the main merit of the franchise business is that you don’t have to take the pain of establishing a new brand or name. Rather, you will start your business with a reputed name in the market.
Why Consider Franchise Opportunities in India?
⇒ Established Brand and Customer Base
One of the primary reasons to consider franchise opportunities in India is the benefit of an established brand. Franchisees can leverage the brand’s reputation and existing customer base, which significantly reduces the effort and time required to build a new business from scratch.
⇒ Proven Business Model
Franchisors provide a tried-and-tested business model, which includes operational guidelines, marketing strategies, and ongoing support. This reduces the uncertainty and risk associated with starting a new business, providing a higher chance of success.
⇒ Training and Support
Most franchisors offer extensive training and continuous support to franchisees. This includes guidance on day-to-day operations, staff training, marketing, and management, ensuring that franchisees are well-equipped to run the business effectively.
⇒ Access to Resources
Franchisees often benefit from the franchisor’s established supply chain, bulk purchasing power, and marketing resources. This can result in cost savings and better quality control, enhancing the overall efficiency and profitability of the business.
⇒ Regulatory Compliance
Franchisors assist with navigating regulatory requirements, licensing, and legalities, ensuring that the franchise operates within the framework of local laws and regulations.
List of 25 Franchise Opportunities in India
1. PMKVY
PMKVY or Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojna is a program of The Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India. The main objective of this project is to make the youth of India skilled by providing different types of vocational training.
You can take up the franchise of PMKVY as a training center. You have to be qualified to become the training partner according to the standards set by the Skill Management and Accreditation of Training Centres (SMART). It will also judge and monitor your performance as a Training Centre.
The government provides base costs per candidate for different Sectors at the rate of Rs. 30.30 or Rs. 36.30 or Rs. 42.40 according to the training in various sectors defined in 3 different categories. You have to pay annual accreditation application fees of Rs 12000 and an annual monitoring fee of Rs 8000.
- Industry Sector: Education
- Investment Range: INR 5 – 10 Lakhs
- Area Required: 800 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Comprehensive curriculum, training and support from government infrastructure
- Pros: Growing demand for quality technical education, robust support system.
- Cons: Competitive market
2. Dominos Pizza
One of the largest pizza delivery services, Dominos means pizza at the doorstep within 30 minutes. This concept has become immensely popular in India and that is why it has more than 500 outlets throughout the different states of India.
Considering the love for pizza among the cross-section of people, you can start a Domino’s franchise business for a good profit margin. You need a space of 1500 sqft and a minimum investment of 30 Lakhs. In India, the operations of Dominos are handled by Jubilant Food Works limited and once you enter into a contract they will provide you with the necessary training and orientation to run the business successfully. Keep in mind, the location of your outlet should be in a busy place, close to the residential areas or in a mall or supermarket.
- Industry Sector: Food and Beverage
- Investment Range: INR 30 Lakhs to 50 Lakhs
- Area Required: 1500 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Renowned for quick-service pizza delivery, extensive menu options, strong brand presence
- Pros: High brand recall, comprehensive training and support, established supply chain
- Cons: High initial investment, intense competition.
3. KFC
KFC or Kentucky Fried Chicken is a famous American company serving chicken and non-veg and veg snacks and fast food in more than 115 countries. It is a profitable business opportunity for you because the food items of KFC are people’s favorites gaining popularity with more and more outlets opening.
To have a KFC franchise you need to have a space of a minimum of 500 sqft in a prominent and busy place and invest at least 50 lakhs.
- Industry Sector: Food & Beverage
- Investment Range: INR 1 Crore to 2 Crores
- Area Required: 500 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Famous for fried chicken, strong international presence, proven business model
- Pros: Extensive marketing support, comprehensive training, high brand equity
- Cons: High operational costs, significant initial investment
KidZee School
Kidzee Preschool is a leading chain of preschools located in India and Nepal. The company is backed by Zee Learn Ltd. This leading preschool brand have more than two decades of experience in the preschool industry. It has nurtured more than 1.5 million children throughout India.
If you want to focus on a education-related business, you can go for the KidZee School franchise. KidZee has more than 2000+ centers located in 750+ cities in India. It is without saying, Kidzee is still the most popular preschool franchise opportunity in India.
- Industry Sector: Education
- Investment Range: INR 12 Lakhs to 20 Lakhs
- Area Required: 1500 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Comprehensive curriculum, training and support, strong brand presence.
- Pros: Growing demand for quality preschool education, robust support system.
- Cons: Competitive market, ongoing royalty fees.
5. Subway
Subway is famous for its variety of healthy sandwiches and salads. This American restaurant chain started operating in 1974 and continues to maintain its reputation. Subway has become very popular in India too. It has more than 660 outlets in different parts of India and rising in demand.
Considering the great obsession with healthy and economic food, Subway is one of the best options. Hence your Subway franchise has great profit potential. Subway will give you two-week training and orientation of owners and staff, designing and development of shops, construction guidance, and many other areas of business assistance.
- Industry Sector: Food & Beverage
- Investment Range: INR 50 Lakhs to 90 Lakhs
- Area Required: 500 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Renowned for sandwiches and salads, flexible store formats, health-focused menu options
- Pros: High demand for healthy food, strong brand recognition, extensive franchisor support
- Cons: High initial investment, operational challenges
6. Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut is another famous Pizza brand from Texas USA. It is owned by Yum! Group of businesses and there are more than 400 Pizza Hut outlets in India. Apart from pizza, it also serves pasta, garlic bread, and desserts. If you want to focus on the food business, the Pizza Hut franchise is a profitable option for you. Pizza hut is. now among the most popular pizza franchise opportunities in India.
You need a floor space of at least 500 sqft and an investment of Rs 40 Lakhs for getting the franchisee of Pizza Hut. You will get marketing assistance and need not incur extra costs on inventory management.
- Industry Sector: Food & Beverage
- Investment Range: INR 1 Crore to 2 Crores
- Area Required: 500 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Diverse pizza menu, dine-in and delivery options, strong market presence
- Pros: Strong brand loyalty, extensive training and support, proven business model
- Cons: High initial investment, intense market competition
7. Mahindra First Choice
Mahindra First Choice is a leading multi-brand used car company in India, offering comprehensive solutions for buying, selling, and servicing used cars. It has established itself as a trusted brand with a strong market presence and a wide network of franchise outlets across the country.
Mahindra First Choice is backed by the reputable Mahindra Group, providing a strong brand image and customer trust.
The company provides wide Range of Services that includes buying, selling, and servicing used cars, as well as offering warranty programs and finance options.
- Industry Sector: Automotive
- Investment Range: INR 30 Lakhs to 50 Lakhs
- Area Required: 2000 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Established automotive brand, comprehensive training, and support.
- Pros: Growing demand for pre-owned cars, strong brand recognition, diverse revenue streams.
- Cons: Competitive market, dependency on inventory quality.
8. Dr. Batra’s
Dr. Batra’s Clinics are one of the largest chains of homeopathy clinics not only in India but also in countries like Bangladesh, Dubai, Bahrain, and the UK. They treat various diseases like asthma, acne, allergic reactions, etc. It has more than 150 clinics in 45 cities with more than 1.5 million satisfied patients.
If you want to take Dr. Batra’s Clinic franchise you will need a space of at least 500 sqft and an investment of Rs 25-30 Lakhs. You will get the advantage of professionally qualified experts from the Business Expansion Department of the chain of clinics.
- Industry Sector: Healthcare
- Investment Range: INR 30 lakhs to 50 lakhs
- Area Required: 500 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Homeopathic treatments, wide range of services, strong brand presence
- Pros: Established customer base, comprehensive training, high brand recognition
- Cons: Requires medical expertise
9. Amul Parlour
Amul is a name that needs no introduction in India. Hence starting an Amul Ice-cream Parlour can be a good business option for you. Almost 75 years of business and excellent quality have made Amul a household name. Amul has more than 1500 ice cream parlors in India.
For the franchise of Amul Ice-creams, you need an area of at least 300 sqft in a good location, and the space has to be well-decorated with air-conditioned facilities. The amount of primary investment is Rs 2-5 Lakhs. The biggest advantage of the Amul franchise is that the inventory will be delivered directly to your outlet. Amul Ice cream retail business is among the most popular low-cost franchise opportunities in India.
- Industry Sector: FMCG & Dairy
- Investment Range: INR 2 lakhs to 5 lakhs
- Area Required: 300 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Trusted dairy brand, Wide product range, Strong market presence
- Pros: Low investment, high demand for dairy products, strong brand reputation
- Cons: Limited scope for high-profit margins, intense competition
10. Eurokids
Eurokids is another famous name in the playschool industry in India. Established in 2001 Eurokids have more than 1000 schools in over 350 cities in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. They have a very good reputation as far as parents’ reviews are concerned.
The franchise business of Eurokids will be quite profitable for you. You will need a build-up area of 2000 sqft and an investment of Rs 12-20 Lakhs. Eurokids will provide you with infrastructure design, furniture, teachers’ training, teaching aids, marketing and operation support lead management, and easy access to the online system.
- Industry Sector: Education
- Investment Range: INR 10 Lakhs to 20 Lakhs
- Area Required: 2000 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Leading preschool franchise, Quality early childhood education, Strong brand presence
- Pros: High demand for quality education, comprehensive training and support, proven business model
- Cons: Requires educational expertise
11. Apollo Clinic
Apollo Clinic is a renowned name in Indian medical industry. It started its operation in 1987 and now has more than 3500 outlets in the country. Apollo also has medical products which are 400 in number and quite reputed in the market without a doubt is among the most sought-after medical shop franchise opportunities in India.
If you want to invest in the essential service business, the Apollo Clinic franchise is one of the best options for you. You will need a space of 100-160 sqft in a good location. There should be at least two staff in the pharmacy. For a single unit pharmacy, you need to invest Rs 5-10 Lakhs and for a master pharmacy, you have to invest Rs 10-20 Lakhs.
- Industry Sector: Healthcare
- Investment Range: INR 5 Lakhs to 20 Lakhs
- Area Required: 100 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Comprehensive clinical services, strong healthcare brand, extensive support
- Pros: High demand for healthcare services, strong brand reputation, comprehensive training and support
- Cons: Intense competition
12. Baskin Robbins
Baskin Robbins is a famous American Ice-cream producer established in 1945. They have a large variety of products which include 31 varieties of ice creams and all of them are vegetarian which is a plus point as far as India is concerned. They have more than 7000 outlets in 50 countries and more than 725 outlets in India.
The franchise of Baskin Robbins is a very profitable ice-cream business venture for you. For a franchise, you need a space of 200-500 sqft and the amount required is a minimum of Rs 10 Lakh. In return, you will get support in business development, operations, marketing, staff training, and hardware and software support from Baskin Robbins. The supply chain will also be handled by Baskin Robbins.
- Industry Sector: Food & Beverage
- Investment Range: INR 10 lakhs to 20 lakhs
- Area Required: 200 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Renowned ice cream brand, wide range of flavours, strong market presence
- Pros: High brand recognition, comprehensive support, proven business model
- Cons: High operational costs, seasonal demand variations
13. DTDC
Courier services have a great demand now. Therefore you can invest in the courier business and DTDC is a profitable option for you. Established in 1990, DTDC serves domestic as well as international sectors and has more than 12000 franchisees in India.
The conditions of the DTDC franchise are quite easy. You need a space of 100 sqft and a monetary investment of Rs 1.5 Lakhs. You have to hire delivery persons to deliver the consignments on time as per the reputation of DTDC. DTDC courier is among the cheapest franchise opportunities in India.
- Industry Sector: Logistics & Courier
- Investment Range: INR 2 Lakhs to 5 Lakhs
- Area Required: 100 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Leading courier and logistics company, wide network, strong brand presence
- Pros: Low initial investment, high demand for logistics services, strong brand reputation
- Cons: Intense market competition, operational challenges
14. Jockey
Jockey is an American company manufacturing innerwear for men and women. Established in 1934 Jockey is spread over 120 countries of the world. It started its operation in India in 1994 and has become a favorite innerwear brand amongst Indians. It has about 370 exclusive stores in India.
For the Jockey franchise, you must have a space of 1000 sqft in a premium location. The monetary implication is Rs 30-40 Lakhs. As a franchisee, you will get assistance in the selection of location, store decoration, staff training, etc.
- Industry Sector: Retail (Apparel)
- Investment Range: INR 50 Lakhs to 1 Crore
- Area Required: 1000 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Renowned for innerwear and sportswear, strong brand recognition, proven business model
- Pros: High brand loyalty, Comprehensive support, Established market presence
- Cons: High initial investment, Intense market competition
15. Kalyan Jewellers
If you are interested in the jewelry market and ready for high investment, Kalyan Jewellers is a good option for you. PC Jewellers started their operation in 1993 by Mr T.S. Kalyanaraman.
They specialize in high-value wedding jewelry and diamond jewelry. At present they have more than 230+ showrooms acroos several cities in India. For the Kalyan Jewellers franchise, you need showroom space at a prominent location or in a mall.
- Industry Sector: Retail (Jewellery)
- Investment Range: INR 1 Crore to 3 Crores
- Area Required: 2000 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Trusted name in jewellery, wide product range, strong brand presence
- Pros: High demand for jewellery, comprehensive training and support, strong brand reputation
- Cons: High initial investment, intense market competition
16. Lenskart
Lenskart is a comparatively new name in the optical world. However, it has successfully created its niche in the market. Starting its operations in 2010, it has stores in more than 1000 cities and is in a mode of rapid expansion. It offers varieties of optical lenses, eyeglasses, sunglasses, and frames for people of all age groups. It has facilities for free eye testing also.
For the Lenskart franchise, you need a space of a minimum of 300 sqft in a good location and a minimum investment of Rs 30 Lakhs. You will be supplied with premium-quality lenses and frames that are highly acclaimed across India.
- Industry Sector: Retail (Eyewear)
- Investment Range: INR 30 lakhs to 50 lakhs
- Area Required: 300 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Leading eyewear brand, wide range of products, strong market presence
- Pros: High demand for eyewear, comprehensive support, proven business model
- Cons: High initial investment, intense market competition
17. Lakme Salon
The name Lakme is synonymous with high-quality beauty products appreciated by the cross-section of women in India. Owned by Hindustan Unilever, Lakme started its operations in 1954 and has been able to maintain its quality and demand successfully. The world of beauty care is an expanding business area and therefore you can invest in the Lakme franchise and earn good profits.
- Industry Sector: Beauty and Wellness
- Investment Range: INR 50 lakhs – 1 crore
- Features: Established beauty brand, extensive training, and marketing support.
- Pros: Growing demand for beauty services, strong brand presence, diverse service offerings.
- Cons: High operational costs, ongoing royalty fees.
18. Jawed Habib
Jawed Habib started his salon business in 1984 and gradually became the premium brand in hair styling and beauty care. The beauty business is a profit-making business and Jawed Habib can be a lucrative franchise option for you. Jawed Habib has more than 450 salons in 90 cities in India. It also has branches in countries like Singapore, Dubai, Kenya, Bangladesh, and Nepal.
Suggested Read: How to Start a Hair Salon Business
The franchise fee for a Jawed Habib Salon is Rs 5-10 Lakhs and it is for 4 years, after which you have to renew it. They train in different types of beauty treatments, hair styling, bridal make-up, etc.
- Industry Sector: Beauty & Wellness
- Investment Range: INR 20 lakhs to 30 Lakhs
- Area Required: 800 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Renowned salon chain, wide range of services, strong brand presence
- Pros: High demand for beauty services, comprehensive training and support, proven business model
- Cons: High initial investment, requires expertise in beauty services
22. Patanjali
Patanjali started its business in 2006. Specializing in Ayurvedic and herbal medicines, beauty care, personal care, and food products, it has gained huge popularity among the Indian people and hence has been marked as a profitable business venture. Considering the huge preference for herbal and Ayurvedic products and the name and fame of Patanjali, it will be a profitable venture for you to invest in the Patanjali franchise.
For the Patanjali store franchise, you need a space of a minimum of 500 sqft and an investment of at least Rs 7 Lakhs. Patanjali has more than 47000 retail counters in India.
- Industry Sector: FMCG
- Investment Range: INR 5 Lakhs to 20 Lakhs
- Area Required: 500 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Known for Ayurvedic products, wide range of FMCG items, strong brand presence
- Pros:High demand for natural products, comprehensive support, strong brand recognition
- Cons: Intense market competition, seasonal demand variations
23. Archies
If you want to invest in a creative business, Archies is a great option for you. Specializing in greeting cards for various occasions and personalized gift items and other artistic things, Archies has successfully created brand value in this creative field. Starting its operations in 1979, Archies has successfully set up more than 500 outlets.
- Industry Sector: Retail (Gifts & Stationery)
- Investment Range: INR 10 lakhs to 20 lakhs
- Area Required: 500 Sq. ft onwards
- Features: Leading brand in gifts and stationery, wide product range, strong market presence
- Pros: High demand for gift items, comprehensive support, proven business model
- Cons: Seasonal demand variations
24. Khadims
Established in 1981, Khadims is a renowned brand in footwear in India. It is a trusted as well as a time-tested brand. If you want to explore the footwear market, Khadims is a profitable option for you. Manufacturing different kinds of footwear for both men as well as women in an affordable price range, Khadims has more than 500 outlets in India.
Also Read: How to Start Shoe Laundry Business
- Industry Sector: Retail (Footwear)
- Investment Range: INR 20 lakhs to 40 lakhs
- Area Required: 500 Sq. ft onwards
- Features: Known for affordable footwear, wide product range, strong market presence
- Pros: High demand for footwear, comprehensive support, proven business model
- Cons: High initial investment, intense market competition
25. Gold’s Gym
Gold’s Gym is a globally recognized fitness brand with a strong presence in India. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities, comprehensive fitness programs, and expert trainers, Gold’s Gym offers a lucrative franchise opportunity in the burgeoning health and fitness industry.
Gold’s Gym is an internationally acclaimed fitness brand with a strong reputation. The company offers a wide range of fitness services, including personal training, group classes, nutrition counseling, and wellness programs.
- Industry Sector: Health and Fitness
- Investment Range: INR 2.5 Crores – 4 Crores
- Area Required: 5000 sq. ft onwards
- Features: Established fitness brand, comprehensive training, and marketing support.
- Pros: Increasing health consciousness, strong brand loyalty, diverse revenue streams.
- Cons: High operational costs, location-specific challenges.
How to Start a Franchise Business in India – Important Steps
Research and Identify Your Niche
Begin by identifying the sector that aligns with your interests, skills, and financial capacity. Conduct thorough research on the various franchise opportunities in India within that sector, considering factors such as market demand, competition, and growth potential.
Evaluate Franchise Options
Once you have identified a few potential franchises, evaluate them based on criteria such as brand reputation, support and training provided, initial investment required, and terms of the franchise agreement. Engage with existing franchisees to gain insights into their experiences and challenges.
Prepare a Business Plan
Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your goals, target market, marketing strategies, and financial projections. This plan will not only guide your operations but also be instrumental in securing financing if needed.
Secure Financing
Assess your financial situation and explore funding options to cover the initial investment and ongoing operational costs. This may include personal savings, bank loans, or seeking investment from venture capitalists or angel investors.
Sign the Franchise Agreement
Review the franchise agreement carefully, seeking legal counsel if necessary, to ensure you understand all terms and conditions. Once satisfied, sign the agreement and pay the necessary franchise fee to formalize the partnership.
Attend Training and Set Up Operations
Participate in the training programs provided by the franchisor to familiarize yourself with the business model and operational procedures. Set up your franchise location, ensuring it meets the franchisor’s standards and guidelines.
Launch and Promote Your Franchise
Once your franchise is set up, launch it with a grand opening event to attract customers. Implement the marketing strategies provided by the franchisor, supplemented by local advertising and promotions to build brand awareness in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to start a franchise in India?
The cost to start a franchise in India varies depending on the brand and sector. It can range from as low as INR 5 Lakhs for small franchises to over INR 14 crores for high-end franchises. It is essential to evaluate the initial investment, ongoing fees, and potential returns before making a decision.
What are the benefits of franchising in India?
Franchising in India offers several benefits, including access to an established brand, proven business model, training and support, and reduced risk. Franchisees can leverage the franchisor’s resources, marketing strategies, and operational guidelines to build a successful business.
What sectors offer the best franchise opportunities in India?
The best sectors for franchise opportunities in India include food and beverage, education, health and fitness, retail, beauty and wellness, automotive, and real estate. These sectors have shown significant growth and offer lucrative opportunities for franchisees.
How do I choose the right franchise in India?
To choose the right franchise in India, start by identifying a sector that aligns with your interests and skills. Conduct thorough research on potential franchises, evaluate their brand reputation, support and training, initial investment, and terms of the franchise agreement. Engage with existing franchisees and seek professional advice to make an informed decision.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.