- India’s franchise market is growing 30–35% annually, making it ideal for small investors
- You can start a profitable franchise under 10 lakhs in food, retail, healthcare, logistics, or education
- Top picks include Amul, Tea Time, DTDC, Apollo Diagnostics, and KidZee, each with strong demand
- Average profit margins range from 15% to 50%, with break-even in 1–2 years
- Brands provide training, support, and proven models, reducing business risk for beginners
Franchising is the easiest way to start a business when you don’t want the struggle of building a brand from scratch. In 2025, the Indian franchise industry is growing at 30–35% annually, making it a booming business opportunity. With just 5–10 lakhs, you can partner with reputed companies in food, healthcare, retail, or education. Below, we explore the top 10 low-investment franchises in India under 10 lakhs, their costs, and profit potential.
Franchise Comparison
| Franchise Brand | Investment Range | Key Highlights |
| Amul | ₹2–6 lakhs | Dairy giant with 20–50% profit margin; no royalty fee. |
| Patanjali Store | ₹5–8 lakhs | Ayurveda & FMCG leader; 4,700+ outlets. |
| DTDC Courier | ₹1.5–5 lakhs | Logistics chain; steady demand & low setup. |
| Lenskart Partner Store | ₹5–10 lakhs | Fast-growing eyewear brand; AR tech support. |
| Giani’s Ice Cream | ₹5–10 lakhs | Popular dessert brand; 25–35% margin. |
| FirstCry | ₹8–10 lakhs | Baby products retailer; 400+ partner stores. |
| Apollo Diagnostics | ₹6–8 lakhs | Trusted healthcare chain; 12% CAGR industry. |
| Tea Time | ₹4–6 lakhs | 3,500+ outlets; 40%+ profit margins. |
| KidZee Preschool | ₹8–10 lakhs | Asia’s largest preschool chain; 1,900+ centres. |
| Naturals Ice Cream | ₹8–10 lakhs | Premium handmade ice cream; strong urban demand. |
Top 10 Low-Investment Franchises in India (2025)
1. Amul Franchise
- Why it works: Amul is India’s biggest dairy brand with an unmatched reputation. Its product range includes milk, butter, cheese, and ice cream.
- Profits: Franchise owners enjoy 20–50% margins depending on the product.
- Best part: No royalty fees, so you keep more profit.
2. Patanjali Store
- Why it works: With rising demand for Ayurveda and natural products, Patanjali has become a household name.
- Profits: Earn 15–30% margins on health, food, and wellness products.
- Best part: Strong supply chain and over 4,700 franchise stores.
3. DTDC Courier Franchise
- Why it works: India’s logistics sector is booming due to e-commerce growth. DTDC is a reliable courier partner.
- Profits: Franchisees can earn 15–20% margins.
- Best part: Low setup space (100–200 sq. ft.) and quick ROI.
4. Lenskart Partner Store
- Why it works: Eyewear is no longer just a necessity; it’s also fashion. Lenskart offers smart tech like AR for virtual try-ons.
- Profits: Average 20–25% margin with strong repeat sales.
- Best part: Full support from Lenskart’s digital platform & supply chain.
5. Giani’s Ice Cream
- Why it works: One of India’s oldest and most loved ice cream chains with 70+ years of trust.
- Profits: Earn 25–35% margins, especially in urban and tourist areas.
- Best part: Compact space needed (80–150 sq. ft.).
6. FirstCry Franchise
- Why it works: FirstCry dominates the baby care segment, with everything from diapers to toys.
- Profits: Margins are 25–30% with high repeat orders.
- Best part: The Trust of millions of Indian parents and over 400+ stores.
7. Apollo Diagnostics
- Why it works: India’s healthcare sector is recession-proof. Apollo’s trusted name attracts instant customers.
- Profits: Margins between 20 and 25% on tests and packages.
- Best part: Strong medical credibility and industry growth of 12% CAGR.
8. Tea Time Franchise
- Why it works: Tea is India’s daily addiction, making Tea Time one of the fastest-growing QSR franchises.
- Profits: Franchise owners enjoy 40%+ margins, especially in smaller cities.
- Best part: Low investment and quick break-even (8–12 months).
9. KidZee Preschool
- Why it works: KidZee is Asia’s largest preschool chain and is trusted by parents across India.
- Profits: Earn 20–30% margins with long-term growth potential.
- Best part: Education never goes out of demand.
10. Naturals Ice Cream
- Why it works: Known for natural, fresh fruit-based ice creams, it has a loyal customer base in urban India.
- Profits: Franchise owners earn 25–35% margins.
- Best part: Premium positioning attracts high-income buyers.
Key Takeaways
- India offers multiple low-investment franchises under 10 lakhs.
- Food & beverage brands (Amul, Tea Time, Giani’s) give the fastest returns.
- Healthcare & education options ensure long-term demand.
- Small space businesses (DTDC, Tea Time) are ideal for beginners.
- Right location & brand choice = higher profitability.
Conclusion
Investing in a franchise under 10 lakhs in India is the perfect start for aspiring entrepreneurs in 2025. From the daily dairy demand of Amul to the booming QSR business of Tea Time and the trusted healthcare services of Apollo, there is an option for every budget and interest. With low risks, established branding, and support systems, these franchises can help you build a successful business with limited capital.
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FAQs
Amul and Tea Time are top choices for beginners.
Tea Time (8–12 months) and Amul (6–18 months).
Yes, brands like DTDC and Amul kiosks.
Yes, most offer full training & marketing support.
Healthcare and food are recession-proof.
Yes, Tea Time, DTDC, and Apollo work well in tier-2/3 cities.
Yes, banks provide MSME loans.
No, Amul doesn’t charge royalty.
Ranges from 100 sq. ft. (DTDC) to 1200 sq. ft. (KidZee).
Yes, lower risk and a ready customer base.
