Franchising is a lucrative and successful business model in India. The rates of returns and growth opportunities in the franchise industry make the business model extremely appealing.

But before that let’s understand what is a franchise business.

A franchise is a business model in which a company (the franchisor) grants the right to use its brand name and business model to a third party (the franchisee) in exchange for an initial fee and ongoing royalties.

In India, franchising has become increasingly popular in recent years as the economy has grown and more people have become interested in starting their own businesses.

There are a wide variety of franchises available in India, including fast food chains, retail stores, service businesses, and more.

The success rate of franchise firms is roughly 85%, which is higher than the success rate of start-ups that have failed three to four times in the previous five years. The mixed economy of India is creating enormous opportunities for franchisors to enter this market.

Starting a franchise in India can be a good business opportunity, but it is important to carefully consider the pros and cons before making a decision.

Pros:

  • Established brand
  • Proven business model
  • Support and training
  • Access To Increased Purchasing Power
  • Low risk
  • Built-in customer base

Cons:

  • High cost
  • Limited control
  • Ongoing fees
  • High Competition
  • Adhere to Franchise's Rules
  • More authority over the parent company

To start a franchise in India, it's important to do research and carefully consider the costs, risks, and potential rewards of joining a franchise system.

Here we have compiled the 30 profitable franchise businesses in India where you start your business.

Food & Beverage

Domino’s

Whenever pizza comes to your mind you must hear about Domino’s pizza. Domino's is a chain of Pizza established in 1960,

In the U.S. Domino’s serves more than 1 million consumers and is available in more than 70 countries, including India.

It was launched in India in 1996 and now it has more than 1400 outlets in India. In addition to pizza, it also provides other delicious foods like pasta, garlic bread, chicken wings, and much more.

Dominos Pizza is one of the largest franchise companies in India, which has expanded its franchise across the country.  Domino's franchise is lucrative, due to the high consumer demand for the foods and the successful franchise business strategy.

Industry - Food & Beverage

Founded in - 1960

Investment - 30 to 50 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 1400+

How to apply for the franchise - Email [email protected]

KFC

KFC was started in 1939 in the U.S. They offer burgers, chicken, snacks, as well as cool drinks. As people love its taste and trust in its quality, therefore getting its franchise can be beneficial for you.

KFC has more than 20,000 outlets throughout 140 countries. KFC began operating in India in 1995 and now has more than 400 outlets there.

This can be one of the best franchise businesses for you if you have your own space in a decent location, a minimum floor area need of 500 square feet, a minimum investment of ₹ 50 lakhs, and the required financial resources.

Industry - Food & Beverage

Founded in - 1939

Investment - 50 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 400+

How to apply for the franchise - Click here

McDonald’s

McDonald's is a global fast-food chain that operates in many countries, including India.

The first McDonald's restaurant in India opened in 1996. Since then, the company has expanded to have a presence in many major cities and towns across the country.

In India, McDonald's offers foods like the McAloo Tikki burger and the Chicken Maharaja Mac. In addition to its traditional menu, in India, it also offers vegetarian meals as per customers’ requirements.

McDonald's strong marketing and advertising budget will support the marketing of your restaurant and bring in new customers.

Industry - Food & Beverage

Founded in - 1996

Investment - 6 to 14 crores

Franchise Unit - 300+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Dunkin’ Donuts

Dunkin' Donuts is a well-known chain of cafes and bakeries, established in the United States in 1950. In India, Dunkin' Donuts operates as a franchise, with franchisee-owned and operated stores throughout the country.

Dunkin' Donuts is known for its high-quality coffee, which is made using 100% Arabica beans, as well as its wide selection of doughnuts and other baked goods.

The company addressed the Indian market in 2012 and has already opened more than 50 units there.

Industry - Food & Beverage

Founded in - 1950

Investment - 20 to 70 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 50+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Bikanervala


Bikanervala is a popular chain of food outlets in India that specializes in traditional Indian sweets, snacks, and meals.

The company was founded in the 1950s by Shri Baldeo Das Bikaneri and has since grown to become a well-known and respected brand in the country.

Bikanervala has a wide range of products on offer, including a variety of sweets and snacks. The business is situated in Bikaner, Rajasthan, and was established by Lala Bikaji in 1926.

In India, the company has more than 100 outlets. Bikanervala is renowned for its delicious snacks and sweets.

Industry - Food and Beverages

Founded in -1950

Investment - 7 to 12 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 60+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Baskin Robbins

Baskin-Robbins is a global chain of ice cream parlours that was founded in 1945 in Glendale, California. The company is known for its variety of ice cream flavours.

In India, Baskin-Robbins has a significant presence with hundreds of stores in various cities across the country.

Baskin-Robbins entered the Indian market in 1993, and since then, it has become a popular destination for ice cream lovers. The company has a strong franchise model in India, with local franchisees operating the stores.

Industry - Food and Beverages (Ice Cream)

Founded in - 1945

Investment - 10 to 12 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 750

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Wow! Momo

Wow! Momo is a popular chain of fast food restaurants in India that specializes in momos, a type of steamed dumpling filled with various types of fillings. The company was founded in Kolkata in 2008 and has since expanded to have outlets in multiple cities across India.

Wow! Momo is known for its variety of momos, which are available in different flavours and fillings such as chicken, paneer, and vegetables. The chain also offers a range of other fast food items such as sandwiches, wraps, and beverages.

Industry -  Food & Beverage

Founded in - 2008

Investment - ₹ 10 to 12 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 300+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Kake di Hatti

Kake di Hatti is a popular chain of food outlets in India, known for its traditional North Indian cuisine and sweet dishes. The company was founded in Old Delhi by the Kake family.

Kake di Hatti is known for its authentic North Indian dishes, including naan, paratha, and, curries, and rice dishes.

In addition to these main dishes, the restaurant also offers a variety of appetizers, desserts, and beverages.

For more than nine decades, they have maintained their quality and flavour, and they provide massive returns to their small group of franchise shops.

A prominent franchise in India, Kake Di Hatti is expanding and offers a fantastic chance to succeed in the food and beverage industry.

Industry - Food & Beverage

Founded in - 1942

Investment - 20 to 30 lakhs

Franchise Unit - Less than 10

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Subway

Subway is a popular fast-food chain that is known for its submarine sandwiches. The company was founded in the United States in 1965 and has since expanded to more than 44,000 locations in over 100 countries worldwide.

In India, Subway has a significant presence with more than 1,400 locations across the country. The company operates both company-owned and franchise locations in India.

Industry - Food and Beverages

Founded in - 1965

Investment - 50 to 90 Lakhs

Franchise Unit - 500+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Starbucks

Starbucks is an American coffee company that has opened a number of stores in India. In India, Starbucks operates as a joint venture with Tata Global Beverages and has over 1,000 stores in over 50 cities across the country.

In India, Starbucks sources and roasts coffee locally and also offers a menu that is tailored to local tastes and preferences.

This includes a range of drinks made with chai and other Indian spices, as well as a selection of snacks and meals that are popular in India.

Industry - Food & Beverage

Founded in - 1971

Investment - 1.5 to 2.2 crores

Franchise Unit - 150+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

AMUL

Amul is one of the most well-known and profitable businesses in India. It is a cooperative society that Tribhuvandas Patel founded in 1946. The organisation has more than 3 million members and is headquartered in Anand, Gujarat.

Amul is a well-known dairy company in India that offers a variety of products such as milk, butter, cheese, and ice cream. The company also has a franchise model for its retail outlets, known as Amul Parlours.

At present, Amul has a network of 3.1 million dairy proprietors and consumers spread across 40 different nations.

Industry - Food and Beverages

Founded in - 1946

Investment - 5 to 10 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 6000

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Giani's

Giani is a chain of ice cream parlours and fast food outlets in India. The company was founded in 1956 in Delhi by Giani Gurmukh Singh, who started out by selling ice cream from a bicycle cart.

Today, Giani's has a number of outlets in different parts of the country and is known for its delicious ice cream and fast food items, including burgers, sandwiches, and chaats.

In addition to its regular menu, Giani also offers a range of specialities, such as kulfi, falooda, and sundaes. The company also offers catering services for events and parties.

If you are interested in starting a Giani franchise in India, you can contact the company directly for more information on the process and requirements.

Industry - Food & Beverage (Ice Cream)

Founded in - 1956

Investment - 10 to 20 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 100+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Beauty & Wellness

Lakme

When it comes to cosmetics and beauty products, Lakme is one of the most popular and well-known brands in the world. It was established in 1952, and since then, it has kept its excellent reputation.

Hindustan Unilever owns the company, which is present in over 75 Indian cities and has about 150 physical outlets. The brand is known for its makeup, skincare, and personal care products.

Industry - Beauty & Wellness

Founded in - 1952

Investment - 20 to 30 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 150+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

VLCC

VLCC is a wellness and beauty company that was founded in India in 1989. It offers a range of products and services related to personal care, weight loss, and skincare.

More than 5 million customers, both domestic and international use the brand.

The company has a franchise model, which means that it grants the right to use its brand name and business model to individuals or businesses who want to own and operate their own VLCC wellness centres.

Industry - Beauty & Wellness

Founded in - 1989

Investment - 30 to 32 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 300+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Green Trends is a pioneer in providing a wide range of grooming solutions to customers that are price-conscious.

They are the market leaders in the salon sector, providing wonderful haircuts, affordable bridal cosmetics, skincare services, colour services, and much more.

It was established in 2002, and Vogue Private Limited is its owner. In India, there are about 70 of its outlets. In addition, they offer makeovers, personal styling, a spa, and other services.

If you want to design a high-end salo, this might be the best option.

Industry - Beauty & Wellness

Founded in - 2002

Investment - 30 to 50 Lakhs

Franchise Unit - 70+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Jawed Habib Hair & Beauty

Jawed Habib Hair & Beauty is a chain of salons in India that offers a range of hair and beauty services. The company was founded by Jawed Habib, a celebrity hairstylist who has been in the industry for over three decades.

In India, it has opened branches in 85 cities and 21 states. Jawed Habib founded it with the intention of providing modern hairstyles and cosmetic treatments at reasonable costs.

Jawed Habib Hair & Beauty operates through a franchise model, which means that the company allows individuals or entities to set up and operate their own salons under the Jawed Habib brand name.

The company also provides training and support to its franchisees to help them run their businesses effectively.

Industry - Beauty and Wellness

Founded in - 2006

Investment - 20 to 30 Lakhs

Franchise Unit - 650

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Deliveries and Courier

Delhivery

Delhivery is a leading logistics and supply chain company based in India. It provides a range of services, including express delivery, freight, and supply chain management, to businesses and individuals across the country.

Delhivery, which was established in 2011, attempts to create a structured environment for business.

It has begun to compete with renowned express logistics firms that have been around for a while, such BlueDart and Gati Ltd., in less than ten years.

The company has a network of over 25,000 partners, including franchisees, who help it deliver packages to customers in more than 10,000 cities and towns in India.

Industry - Deliveries and Courier

Founded in - 2011

Investment - 50,000 to 2 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 1000+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

InXpress

InXpress is a global logistics and shipping franchise that offers businesses and individuals a range of shipping and courier services.

In India, InXpress has long been recognised as a leading delivery service. InXpress chooses the most cost-effective carrier and service choice for each customer's needs.

The company is among the low-cost franchises and offers entrepreneurs the resources they need to create a flexible business with the backing of a worldwide franchise system.

Industry - Courier and Delivery

Founded in - 2011

Investment - 5 to 7 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 50

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

DTDC

DTDC is a leading courier and logistics company in India, with a strong network of franchisees across the country.

The company offers courier and logistics services, including domestic and international courier, freight forwarding, warehousing, and distribution.

It was founded in 1990 and is currently one of the most well-known and trustworthy courier brands in India. In India, it has more than 5800 active channel partners.

Industry - Deliveries and Courier

Founded in - 1990

Investment - 50,000 to 2 lakh

Franchise Unit - 1000+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Education

EuroKids

One of the most well-known preschool chains in India is EuroKids has also developed into one of the top franchises with low startup costs.

The success of EuroKids was attributed to its founders, Prajodh Rajan and Vikas Phadnis, and their 'kid first' philosophy.

With more than 1000 preschool facilities spread over more than 350 cities in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, the brand has established a remarkable reputation as the ideal setting for fostering young minds.

Industry - Pre-school Education

Founded in - 2001

Investment - 10 to 20 Lakhs

Franchise Unit - 1000+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Kidzee

Kidzee is a chain of preschools in India that is part of the Zee Learn Limited group. It is known for its "iLLUME" curriculum, which focuses on experiential learning and aims to nurture children's overall development.

Kidzee franchises are an excellent choice if you enjoy working with children or want to work in the education industry.

With more than 1900 locations open in more than 700 Indian cities, it is one of the biggest preschool networks in Asia.

Industry - Pre-school Education

Founded in - 2003

Investment - 12 lakh

Franchise Unit - 1900

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Others

Khadims

Khadim's is a leading footwear company in India that was founded in 1979. The company operates a franchise model, and it has a large network of franchise stores across the country.

Overall, being a Khadim's franchisee can be a lucrative and rewarding business opportunity for those who are interested in starting their own footwear retail business and are willing to put in the time and effort to build a successful franchise.

Industry - Footwear

Founded in - 1979

Investment - 20 to 30 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 450+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Tumbledry

Tumbledry founded in 2019, has quickly grown to become India's largest laundry and dry cleaning chain. They have a huge franchise network with 300+ outlets spread over more than 83 cities.

Tumbledry is on a mission to end the laundry difficulties of urban India, backed by industry experts. Dry cleaning, laundry, shoe repair, bag cleaning & repair, carpet cleaning, and many other services are available from them.

Industry - Dry-clean & Laundry

Founded in - 2019

Investment - 25 Lakh

Franchise Unit - 300+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Kalyan Jewellers

Mr T.S. Kalyanaraman, a businessman with more than 45 years of experience, founded Kalyan Jewellers in 1993.

The company creates, produces, and markets products with diamonds, gold, and other gemstones. It is well-established in 21 Indian states and UTs.

Kalyan Jewellers is a leading jewellery chain in India, with a strong presence in the country and abroad.

Industry - Jewellery

Founded in - 1993

Investment - 50 Lakh -1 Crore

Franchise Unit - 100+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Patanjali

Patanjali was founded by Baba Ramdev along with Acharya Balkishan in 2006. Patanjali’s initial product line was herbal and ayurvedic items.

After the huge success of the ayurvedic products, it included personal care products, beauty items, and food products with a wide range of FMCG items.

In a short span, Patanjali's revenue raised to Rs 10,664.46 crore in FY22 compared to FY21. It has over 47000 outlets in India. Also, Patanjali was ranked as the most trusted FMCG brand in India.

Industry - FMCG

Founded in - 2006

Investment - 5 to 7 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 47000+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Pepperfry

Pepperfry is an online furniture company that was established in 2011, with its headquarters in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

Along with an online eCommerce platform, there are more than 70 stores or studios spread over more than 28 locations.

In different Indian locations, the business operates more than 20 FOFO Studios that it launched as part of its franchise programme in 2017.

Industry - Furniture and Home Decor

Founded in - 2011

Investment - 15 Lakh

Franchise Unit - 70+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Hero MotoCorp

Hero MotoCorp is a leading motorcycle and scooter manufacturer in India. The company was founded in 1984 as a joint venture between the Hero Group and Honda.

In 2010, Hero MotoCorp became an independent company after it ended its partnership with Honda.

The company has a strong presence in the Indian market, with a wide range of motorcycles and scooters that cater to different segments of customers. Hero MotoCorp also has a network of dealerships and service centres across the country.

Industry - Automobile

Founded in - 1984

Investment - 50 Lakhs to 1.2 Cr

Franchise Unit - 300+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Lenskart

Lenskart is an Indian eyewear company that sells a range of eyewear products, including eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses.

It operates a network of offline stores, as well as an online store, and offers a range of services, including eye exams and home eye check-

In 2010, Peyush Bansal, Amit Chaudhary, and Sumeet Kapahi launched Lenskart as an online platform for contact lenses. It is offered all over India and has more than 330 franchisees.

The lucrative franchise opportunity depends on Lenskart's expansion aspirations to spread its retail eyewear presence throughout India.

Industry - Eyewear and Optometry

Founded in - 2010

Investment - ₹30 to ₹50 lakh

Franchise Unit - 330+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Archies

Since Archies is a well-known brand and is known for selling greeting cards, personalised gifts, artwork, and other similar items, this company has a network of over 500 national and international shops.

Since 1979, its products have captured the hearts of millions of consumers.

For anniversaries, birthdays, mother's day, valentine's day, farewell, and other special occasions, they provide a huge selection of unusual gifts. Consequently, opening an Archies store can be a profitable business for you.

Industry - Gifting

Founded in - 1979

Investment - 12 to 20 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 200+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Dr Lal Pathlabs

Dr Lal PathLabs is a leading diagnostic centre and pathology laboratory in India. The company was founded in 1949 and has a network of more than 3000 centres in India and several international locations.

Dr Lal PathLabs offers a range of diagnostic and pathology services, including clinical laboratory tests, imaging and radiology services, and genetic testing.

It is one of India's most well-known diagnostic franchises. With its cutting-edge facilities and equipment, it offers a variety of testing.

Industry - Healthcare

Founded in - 1949

Investment - ₹ 3 to 4 lakhs

Franchise Unit - 100+

How to apply for the franchise - Click Here

Conclusion

With the country's current marketing trend, starting a franchise business is a fantastic option.

Franchise businesses are a tried and tested business model and a favourite among Indian business owners. It is a low-risk business approach that offers many advantages, including brand recognition, franchisor training and support, etc.

However, now you are aware of the top franchise opportunities available in India, you can pick one based on your interests, location, and financial resources.

FAQs

1. What franchise is best in India?

The best franchise you can start in India are:

  • McDonald's
  • Delhivery
  • KFC
  • Kidzee
  • Lenskart

2. Which is the most profitable franchise in India?

The most profitable franchises in India are:

  • Patanjali
  • Lenskart
  • Lakme
  • Domino’s
  • Amul

3. What is the low-investment franchise business in India?

The low-investment franchise business in India are:

  • DTDC courier
  • Subway
  • Tumbledry
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