A Franchise Business Model is an arrangement where one person (the franchisee) is given the authority to run a business under the brand name, processes, and guidance of an existing company (the franchisor). The model enables one to enter into business with an established track record, known brand name, and constant support — which is why it is favoured by many who want to have a risk-free entry into business. From a fast-food store to a shop or even a service operation, franchising helps fill the chasm between entrepreneurship and being backed by a network of many more.
India has become a hub for lucrative franchise opportunities due to its expanding economy and spirit of entrepreneurship. From food and retail to education and fitness, franchising offers a wide range of options for aspiring business owners. If you’re looking to start your own venture but want the support of an established brand, exploring the best franchise opportunities can be the perfect first step.
In this blog, we will guide you through the best franchises in India that guarantee solid brand value, strong support networks, and good scope for profitability.
Overview on Franchise Business in India
The Indian franchise business is growing phenomenally, with the current valuation standing at approximately ₹80,000 crore (USD 9.6 billion). The market is expected to grow to USD 140–150 billion in the next five years with the help of rising consumer demand and entrepreneurial aspirations (Economic Times). At an incredible rate of 30–35% per annum, India is now the world’s second-largest franchise market after the United States (Entrepreneur India).
There are over 4,600 active franchisors operating nearly 200,000 outlets across the country, with about 53% of entrepreneurs managing multiple franchise units. The franchise sector contributes around 2% to India’s GDP and has created nearly 1 million jobs, highlighting its critical role in the economy (Retail Economic Times).
Sector-wise, the food and beverage (F&B) industry dominates the Indian franchise landscape, accounting for about 35% of the market. Education comes in at 22%, with preschools and coaching centers leading the way, followed by retail with approximately 20%, with fashion, grocery, and lifestyle brands taking the lead.
Health and wellness franchises account for approximately 18%, and home maintenance and EV charging services take up approximately 15% (Franchise India). While Tier 1 cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru still dominate, there has been a robust movement towards Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities like Lucknow, Indore, and Coimbatore, which now account for 40% of franchise openings (Franchise India).
A number of new trends are influencing the Indian franchise industry. Technology adoption, particularly AI and cloud-based solutions, is gaining ground. There is also a visible increase in low-cost franchises with an investment of less than ₹10 lakh, increasing by around 40% year over year. Franchises specializing in sustainability areas like renewable energy and green sectors are trending, and home-based businesses — especially in ed-tech and services — have recorded a 30% growth per annum since the pandemic (Franchise India). India’s franchise market is generally flourishing, offering aspiring business owners a wealth of options in many locations and industries.
List of the 10 Best Franchises in India
1. Subway
Subway offers a compelling franchise opportunity in India, with a well-known international brand and a relatively low startup cost relative to other food franchises. Subway offers extensive training, continued support, and a flexible store design that suits traditional and non-traditional sites such as airports and universities.
Its emphasis on healthy, customizable meals appeals to the increasing demand for healthy eating in India. Franchisees may have a lucrative business with average monthly sales of ₹10 lakh to ₹15 lakh and a break-even point of 2 to 3 years. Subway’s robust support systems, established brand, and good market demand make it a valuable choice for entrepreneurs willing to venture into the quick-service restaurant industry in India.
- Franchise units: 350+
- Initial Investment: INR 6,098,000 – INR 11,979,400
- Franchise fees: INR 650,000
- Website: https://subway.in/
2. Amul
Amul, the household brand of India, has entered the market for high-protein products, launching a line of products like protein milk, whey protein, protein lassi, and protein buttermilk. They are addressing the increasing number of health-conscious consumers, which represents a viable business opportunity for investors.
Amul’s strong brand name and vast distribution network present a stable ground for franchisees. Franchisees enjoy a royalty-free system where they get to keep 100% of their profits. Due to the strong market demand for protein-fortified products and the well-known brand of Amul, this franchise opportunity provides a profitable and sustainable business opportunity for potential business owners.
- Franchise units: 2000+
- Initial Investment: Rs 2-2.5 Lacs
- Franchise fees: Rs 25,000
- Website: https://www.amul.com/
3. Lenskart
Lenskart offers a very lucrative franchisee option in India, fueled by the fast-rising demand for eyewear throughout the nation. As one of the top eyewear companies in India, Lenskart’s brand recognition and tried-and-tested business model make it an excellent chance for franchisees to be part of the flourishing optical retail business.Lenskart provides its franchisees with comprehensive support, ranging from site selection to store design, staff training, and marketing, so that the operations run smoothly from the very beginning. Moreover, the brand provides a royalty-free model during promotion times and a 7-day payout cycle, which provides cash flow consistency.
- Franchise units: 500+
- Initial Investment: INR 30-35 Lac
- Franchise fees: INR 2 Lac
- Website: https://www.lenskart.com/
4. Giani’s
Giani’s Ice Cream, established in 1956 in Delhi, has evolved from a humble shop in Fatehpuri to a renowned dessert brand. The franchise model offers a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This comprises a franchise fee of ₹6 lakh and encompasses store setup, equipment, and opening inventory.
Franchisees are rewarded with a strong support system that includes site selection, store design, staff training, and marketing support. The brand’s extensive product portfolio of more than 50 ice cream flavors, faludas, sundaes, and ice cream cakes appeals to a broad customer base. With gross margins around 50% and an average return on investment (ROI) within 12–15 months, Giani’s presents a profitable venture in the competitive dessert industry
- Franchise units: 200+
- Initial Investment: INR 10-20 LACS
- Franchise fees: INR 5 Lac
- Website: https://www.gianisicecream.com/
5. Kalyan Jewellers
Kalyan Jewellers was founded in 1993 and is one of the most valued jewellery brands from India, globally known for its strong heritage and vast product variety. The company, with its over 230 stores in India and the Middle East, has cemented itself in the country’s jewellery landscape.
Kalyan Jewellers runs on the Franchise Owned Company Operated (FOCO) model under which franchise partners benefit from leveraging the infrastructure and assets of the brand while operating independently. This model supports strong compliance and adherence to brand norms. Expansion plans of the brand involve launching 12-15 new showrooms every year, mostly in non-south markets, in order to boost its revenue contribution from these markets.
- Franchise units: 230+
- Initial Investment: INR 50Lac-1 Crore
- Franchise fees: INR 5 Lac
- Website: https://www.kalyanjewellers.net/
6. Pepperfry
Pepperfry, founded in 2011, has become India’s largest online furniture and home decor marketplace. To further reach out, the company launched its franchise model, the Pepperfry Accelerator Program, to open Franchise Owned Franchise Operated (FOFO) studios in metros, Tier 2, and Tier 3 cities.
The program has seen the successful opening of many studios, which have been a huge contributor to its growth. Franchisees will be offered a revenue sharing arrangement, where they can potentially earn a commission on every online transaction processed at the franchise studio. The projected payback period is 21 to 24 months, with a projected return on investment (ROI) of 22% in the first year, growing to 121% by the third year.
- Franchise units: 30+
- Initial Investment: INR 15-40 Lakhs
- Franchise fees: INR 295000
- Website: https://www.pepperfry.com/
Also Read: IT Companies in Indore
7. InXpress
InXpress offers an attractive franchise opportunity in India’s fast-growing logistics and e-commerce shipping sector. Founded in 1999 in the UK and franchising in India since 2013, InXpress has expanded to 82 offices in the country with a scalable, asset-light business model specifically designed for entrepreneurs looking for a low-overhead, high-margin opportunity.
It runs as a Franchise Owned Franchise Operated (FOFO) model, where the franchisees function as logistics consultants to small and medium enterprises (SMBs). Under the model, the franchisees are able to provide customized shipping solutions with no inventory management and delivery logistics since InXpress has partnerships with worldwide carriers such as DHL and Blue Dart to do the fulfillment. The company is home-based and scalable, with minimal infrastructure and staff.
- Franchise units: 500+
- Initial Investment: INR 9 Lakhs
- Franchise fees: INR 500,000
- Website: https://www.inxpress.com/
8. Tumbledry
Tumbledry, India’s largest laundry and dry cleaning chain, presents an attractive franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the expanding home services market. Tumbledry works on the Franchise Owned Franchise Operated (FOFO) concept, where the day-to-day working is taken care of by the franchisee. The firm provides complete assistance such as site selection, store opening, staff training, and marketing support. Moreover, Tumbledry has an integrated package of customer and runner apps, a CRM solution, and internal research and development for cleaning processes.
- Franchise units: 900+
- Initial Investment: INR 25 Lacs
- Franchise fees: 6-7.5 lacs
- Website: https://tumbledry.in/
9. Fabindia
Fabindia, founded in 1960, is a well-known Indian retail brand that deals in handcrafted items celebrating the nation’s rich artisanal heritage. Fabindia follows a revenue-sharing model under which franchisees get to keep 100% of the revenue from sales and no royalty charges are deducted. The expected return on investment (ROI) is approximately 18%, with the payback period estimated at 3 to 5 years. This model enables franchisees to directly benefit from their sales, thus increasing profitability. Fabindia provides detailed support to franchisees in the form of site selection, store design, staff training, and marketing.
- Franchise units: 355
- Initial Investment: INR 10-15 Lac
- Franchise fees: INR 5 Lac
- Website: https://www.fabindia.com/
10. Lakmé Salon
India’s wellness and beauty sector is dominated by the Hindustan Unilever flagship brand Lakmé Salon. Lakmé Salon follows the Franchise Owned Franchise Operated (FOFO) concept, where the franchisees retain about 65% of the revenue and the franchisor retains the remaining 35%. The return on investment (ROI) time is considerably good, and most franchisees reach breakeven within a period of 12 to 16 months. Lakmé Salon also offers marketing assistance, stock planning, and access to its own proprietary business management software, so franchisees can well-functioning operate
- Franchise units: 450
- Initial Investment: INR 50-60 Lac
- Franchise fees: INR 8 Lac
- Website: https://www.lakmeindia.com/
How to Choose the Best Franchises in India?
Selecting the ideal franchise is a significant choice — it can define your professional life, financial future, and even your way of life. So, you require an intelligent, methodical approach to regret nothing in future. Here is a step-by-step guide:
1. Self-Assessment: Identify Your Interests and Strengths
Prior to looking for a franchise, you have to first analyze yourself. Selecting a franchise need not merely be about the pursuit of profit — it has to align with your passions, skills, and long-term goals. Consider asking yourself what kind of industries are of interest to you, whether you prefer being hands-on or managerial, and whether you have the capacity for high or low risks. For instance, if you love fitness but hate day-to-day operations, you may be more suited to a semi-passive wellness franchise than operating a full-fledged gym. When your strengths and interests align with your business decision, you are far more likely to remain committed and thrive.
2. Determine Your Investment Budget
Having a clear investment budget is important before you begin shortlisting franchises. Indian franchises have entry fees ranging widely from a few lakhs for small kiosks to crores for upscale brands. Your budget must not only pay for the initial franchise fee and setup expenses but also provide sufficient working capital to meet daily expenses until the business turns profitable. And don’t forget the recurring royalty fees that many franchisors impose. Always budget a financial cushion for unforeseen expenses since actual costs tend to exceed initial projections.
3. Study Industries and Sectors
Not all industries are suitable for all entrepreneurs. Certain sectors in India, such as food and beverage, education, wellness, and logistics, have a high potential for franchising success, but each has its own set of challenges. It is essential to research industry trends, growth rates, and consumer demand prior to making a decision. For example, post-pandemic India has witnessed growing interest in health, e-commerce, and education industries. Selecting the correct industry based on thorough research ensures that your business model will be future-proof and more in sync with evolving customer requirements.
4. Shortlist Brands Wisely
After identifying your target industries, the next step is to shortlist franchise brands wisely. Seek out brands with high market awareness, sound business models, consistent growth, and positive reputation with their franchisees. A brand may be popular today but will be a failure tomorrow if it’s not well-established. Find out how much support the brand gives to its partners, how it localizes to meet local market demands, and how open they are in their business activities. The correct brand should not only attract customers but also offer genuine business support when necessary.
5. Assess the Franchise Opportunity
Each franchise opportunity has a package of promises and conditions — you need to review them carefully. Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and any contracts for information on support systems, territory rights, royalty arrangements, contract length, and exit strategies. Some franchises may grant exclusive rights for a specific territory, while others may open competing stores in the vicinity. Know precisely what you are getting in exchange for your investment, and never sign anything without the advice of a lawyer. A franchise agreement must be clearly defined and equitable to be well worth your commitment.
6. Examine Profitability and ROI
Ultimately, you are operating a business to make money. Hence, it’s vital that you consider a franchise’s return on investment and profitability. Observe future revenues, future costs, and breakeven in the future. Determine recurrent expenditures like rent, personnel costs, advertisements, and commodities. Take notice of unrealistic guarantees; instead, test them out in terms of practical examples from past successes and experiences shared with active franchisees. One of the best signs of a solid opportunity is a healthy return on investment within a reasonable timeline.
7. Understand the Local Market Demand
No matter how strong a brand is, it can fail if there is no real demand in your location. Perform in-depth local market research prior to deciding on a franchise. Study the demographics, spending habits, competition, and customer behavior in your target area. For instance, a luxurious café chain may do great in a metropolis but not in a small town. Some franchisors facilitate site selection and feasibility analysis — prefer brands that do this for them. A perfect location that aligns the product with the customer base can go a long way in enhancing your success prospects.
8. Talk to Current Franchisees
One of the best indicators of a franchise opportunity is by talking directly with existing franchisees. They possess real-world experience that no promotional brochure can come close to duplicating. Question them about day-to-day activities, franchisor support, money-making performance, problems they encountered, and satisfaction. Attempt to talk with both successful and troubled franchisees in order to have an honest, balanced perspective. Their comments may reveal concealed problems or substantiate the assurances made by the franchisor and assist you in making a completely well-informed decision.
9. Evaluate Training and Support Structures
Even though you are enthusiastic and talented, an effective training and support system on the part of the franchisor is needed. Good franchises have complete training sessions prior to opening and maintain ongoing support of operations, marketing, and even crisis management after opening. Check if the brand provides training manuals, marketing toolkits, technology support, and access to business consultants. A franchise that invests in its partners’ success ensures that you’re never left alone to figure things out. Strong support not only boosts your confidence but also accelerates your business growth.
10. Trust Your Gut (After Research!)
After doing all the research, calculations, and consultations, sometimes the final decision boils down to intuition. If there’s something in the franchise opportunity that makes you suspicious or feel rushed, it’s acceptable to leave. On the other hand, if you have a good feeling about a brand’s values and want to build it in your area, that’s a good thing. Selecting a franchise is a big deal — it’s best to trust your instincts as well as hard facts and do it slowly. A wise and sound choice today can prepare you for long term success and fulfillment.
Conclusion
Selecting the right franchise in India can be a make-or-break move towards realizing business success. By diligently weighing factors like industry development, brand image, investment requirements, and support mechanisms, you can make the best decision according to your aspirations and resources.
The following 10 franchises are some of the Best Franchises in India, offering promising opportunities with their respective strengths and potential markets. Ultimately, the right franchise for you will be driven by your personal interests, budget, and specific needs of the local market you serve. Therefore, take time, conduct detailed research, and venture into a franchise venture that not only guarantees profitability but also yields long-term fulfillment and development.
FAQs
1. What are the risks of franchising?
Although franchising has numerous advantages, it also comes with risks like high upfront investment, recurring royalty fees, and having to follow strict brand standards. Your success also relies on the strength of the franchisor’s brand and general market conditions.
2. How long does it take a franchise to break even?
The break-even period depends on the industry, where you are located, and your brand. On average, it could take anything from 1 to 3 years to recover your initial investment and begin making a profit. A lot depends on factors such as the efficiency of your operations, local demand, and marketing success.
3. Can I operate a franchise part-time?
Some franchises demand full-time involvement, but other franchises are more accommodating. For instance, enterprises in the education, retail, or services industries may permit more passive management, whereas food and beverage franchises tend to require hands-on attention. Before committing, it’s critical to assess your time availability.
4. Are there support structures for franchisees in India?
Yes, many successful franchises provide extensive support to their franchisees, such as initial training, continuous marketing, supply chain support, and operations support. Support levels can differ by brand, so it is important to consider this prior to signing the franchise agreement.
5. What if my franchise does not work?
If your franchise does not do well, you can lose money. Some franchisors, however, offer exit strategies such as selling the franchise to a third party or passing on ownership. Ensure that you know the conditions of the franchise agreement for termination and exit before signing.