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The aroma of sizzling burgers, the satisfying crunch of crispy fries, the convenience of a quick meal – fast food holds a significant place in the modern lifestyle, especially in a vibrant and fast-paced country like India. For aspiring entrepreneurs, tapping into this ever-growing market through a fast food franchise can be a lucrative venture. Franchising offers a proven business model, established brand recognition, and ongoing support, significantly reducing the risks associated with starting a business from scratch. This blog delves into the exciting world of fast food franchises, highlighting their benefits and showcasing some of the best opportunities available in India right now.
Best Fast Food Franchises You Can Start Now in India

Here are some of the top fast food franchise opportunities in India, offering diverse cuisines and strong brand presence:
- McDonald’s
- Concept: Globally recognised for its iconic burgers, fries, and breakfast items. McDonald’s offers a standardised operating system and strong marketing support.
- Official Website: McDonald’s
- Set-up Cost: ₹6 Crore – ₹14 Crore (This can vary significantly based on location and restaurant format).
- KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken)
- Concept: Famous for its secret recipe fried chicken, KFC boasts a loyal customer base and a strong global presence. They offer various store formats to suit different locations.
- Official Website: KFC
- Set-up Cost: ₹1 Crore – ₹2 Crore (Estimates vary; direct inquiry is recommended).
- Domino’s Pizza
- Concept: A leading pizza delivery chain known for its efficient delivery system and wide range of pizza toppings and sides.
- Official Website: Domino’s Pizza
- Set-up Cost: ₹50 Lakhs – ₹1 Crore (This is an estimated range; actual costs may differ).
- Pizza Hut
- Concept: Another major player in the pizza industry, offering a dine-in experience along with delivery and takeaway options. Pizza Hut is known for its pan pizzas and diverse menu.
- Official Website: Pizza Hut
- Set-up Cost: ₹70 Lakhs – ₹1.5 Crore (Estimates can vary; contacting the franchise directly is advisable).
- Subway
- Concept: A popular submarine sandwich franchise allowing customers to customize their sandwiches with fresh ingredients. Subway is known for its healthier fast food options.
- Official Website: Subway
- Set-up Cost: ₹7 Lakhs – ₹15 Lakhs (Relatively lower compared to burger and pizza franchises).
- Burger King
- Concept: Known for its flame-grilled burgers, particularly the Whopper, Burger King offers a strong international brand presence and a diverse menu.
- Official Website: Burger King
- Set-up Cost: ₹1 Crore – ₹2 Crore (Estimated range; direct inquiry is recommended for accurate figures).
- Wow! Momo
- Concept: A rapidly growing Indian fast food chain specializing in various types of momos (dumplings) with innovative fillings and sauces. It has gained significant popularity for its unique offerings.
- Official Website: WowMomo
- Set-up Cost: ₹30 Lakhs – ₹60 Lakhs (Relatively affordable compared to international giants).
- Giani’s
- Concept: A well-established Indian ice cream and fast food brand offering a variety of ice creams, shakes, pizzas, burgers, and other quick bites. It has a strong presence in North India.
- Official Website: Giani’s
- Set-up Cost: ₹20 Lakhs – ₹40 Lakhs (Varies depending on the format and location).
Drawbacks of Fast Food Franchises
While fast food franchises offer numerous advantages, it’s crucial to be aware of potential drawbacks:
- High Initial Investment: Setting up a well-known fast food franchise can require a significant upfront investment, including franchise fees, equipment costs, and real estate.
- Royalty and Marketing Fees: Franchisees typically need to pay ongoing royalty fees (a percentage of sales) and contribute to national marketing funds.
- Less Operational Flexibility: Franchise agreements often come with strict guidelines and operational procedures that franchisees must adhere to, limiting their autonomy.
- Dependence on Brand Reputation: While a strong brand is an advantage, any negative publicity or brand issues can directly impact the franchisee’s business.
ALSO READ | Domino’s Franchise in India: Cost, Process, License, Profits & More
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Key Takeaways
- The fast food industry in India presents significant opportunities for entrepreneurs through franchising.
- Established brands offer a proven business model, brand recognition, and support.
- Initial investment costs can vary significantly depending on the franchise.
- It’s essential to carefully consider the drawbacks, including fees and operational restrictions.
- Thorough research and due diligence are crucial before investing in any fast food franchise.
Conclusion
Venturing into the fast food industry through franchising in India offers a compelling pathway to entrepreneurship. The established brand recognition, operational support, and proven business models of these franchises can significantly increase the chances of success. While requiring a substantial initial investment and adherence to franchisor guidelines, the potential rewards in a thriving market like India make fast food franchises an attractive option for ambitious individuals looking to capitalize on the nation’s appetite for quick and convenient meals. Remember to conduct thorough research, carefully evaluate your options, and choose a franchise that aligns with your investment capacity and business goals.
FAQs
- What is a fast food franchise?
- A fast food franchise is a business model where an individual (the franchisee) pays a company (the franchisor) for the right to operate a fast food restaurant under the franchisor’s established brand name, system, and trademarks.
- What are the benefits of buying a fast food franchise?
- Benefits include brand recognition, established operating procedures, marketing support, training, and a potentially lower risk of failure compared to starting an independent restaurant.
- How much does it cost to start a fast food franchise in India?
- The cost varies widely depending on the brand, location, and restaurant format. It can range from a few lakhs to several crores of rupees.
- What are the ongoing costs associated with a fast food franchise?
- Ongoing costs typically include royalty fees (a percentage of sales), marketing fees, rent, utilities, salaries, and inventory.
- How do I choose the right fast food franchise for me?
- Consider your investment capacity, risk tolerance, preferred cuisine, location, and research the brand’s reputation and support system.
- What kind of support do fast food franchisors provide?
- Support often includes site selection assistance, initial training, operational manuals, marketing materials, and ongoing guidance.
- Is prior restaurant experience necessary to own a fast food franchise?
- While restaurant experience can be beneficial, many franchisors provide comprehensive training programs that can equip individuals with the necessary skills.
- How long does it take to see a return on investment in a fast food franchise?
- The timeframe for ROI can vary significantly based on factors like location, management, and economic conditions. It typically takes several years.
- What are the legal aspects to consider before buying a franchise?
- It’s crucial to review the Franchise Agreement carefully, understand the terms and conditions, and seek legal advice before signing any documents.
- What is the future outlook for the fast food industry in India?
- The fast food industry in India is expected to continue growing due to increasing urbanization, disposable incomes, and changing lifestyles.