Written By: Gouri Ghosh

If you want to start your own business, investing in an Indian franchise can be one of the best decisions. The franchise sector in India is booming because of a young consumer market, increasing urbanization, and increased demand for branded experiences.

India's franchise sector is expected to reach USD 140–150 billion in the next five years, ranking as one of the fastest-growing markets in the world, says a report. Another report mentions that India will be the world's fastest-growing economy in 2025 and 2026.

This means  2026 is going to be a game-changing year for franchises. From food & beverage (F&B) to retail, education, healthcare, and even technology-driven models, opportunities are everywhere. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 franchises in India 2026 and also look at new international brands entering the country.

Why Franchising is Growing in India 2026

Before we dive into the list, let us know why franchising is trending currently:

• Growing middle class & disposable income – More households are happy to spend on branded food, education, wellness, and retail.
• Aspiration for entrepreneurship – Most people desire to have their own business but with reduced risk, hence franchising is appealing.
• Government support – Government initiatives support MSMEs and startups, enhancing growth.
• Digital adoption – Online learning, food delivery, and e-commerce have created new franchise models.

According to FThe Ranchise Times (2024), the Indian market is attracting international retail and F&B brands due to its young population, increasing disposable income, and rapid digital adoption.

 The FranCast Whitepaper (2023) describes: Franchise models provide budding entrepreneurs lower risk and exposure to proven business processes, hence they are venturing out from metros to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. 

Top 10 Franchises in India 2026

Here's our compilation of the best franchise in India 2026 that provide robust growth opportunities:

Domino's Pizza – Food & Beverage

• Investment Range: ₹50–80 lakh
• Expected ROI: High (break-even in 2–3 years)

Why Top 10:

• We all know Domino's, it's India's No.1 pizza brand.
• Their delivery system is one of the strongest globally.
• As a franchise partner, you have access to a tested and proven business model.
• Regular product launches get customers to come back to you.

2026 Growth:

• Domino's outlets will spring up more in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
• Anticipate more digital-first ordering and loyalty app rewards.
• Healthier and localized menu options to Indian taste.
• High probability to become one of the highest-earning franchises in India 2026.

McDonald's India – Quick Service Restaurant

• Investment Range: ₹6–14 crore
• Expected ROI: Medium to High

Why Top 10:

• McDonald's is a worldwide favorite it never falls out of demand.
• They've perfected marketing and promotions.
• As a franchisee, you have global brand strength working for you.
• You receive complete training, supply chain assistance, and an existing system.

2026 Growth:

• More highway and busy hub location drive-thru stores.
• Digital-first stores with self-order kiosks.
• Delivery focus for working professionals.
• Readily one of the top 10 franchise in India 2026 to look at.

FirstCry – Baby & Kids Retail

• Investment Range: ₹20–30 lakh
• Expected ROI: High

Why Top 10:

• Parents rely on FirstCry for all kids' requirements.
• Brand rules both online and offline spaces.
• Much lower entry cost than food and retail giants.
• Excellent for investors interested in family-oriented businesses.

2026 Growth:

• Growing very fast in semi-urban and Tier 2 cities.
• New categories such as kids' furniture and accessories.
• Omni-channel strategy: online + offline stores combined.
• One of the new franchise opportunities in India 2026 has minimal risk.

DTDC Courier – Logistics & Delivery

• Investment Range: ₹2–5 lakh
• Expected ROI: Consistent and stable

Why Top 10:

• DTDC is a well-known household name in courier services.
• Low franchise in India makes it beginner-friendly.
• Massive e-commerce and D2C brand demand.
• Ideal for those seeking low investment and speedy ROI.

2026 Growth:

• Growth in e-commerce implies continuous courier demand.
• New technologies such as real-time tracking are enhancing services.
• Last-mile delivery expansion to rural India.
• One of the lowest-cost and most profitable franchises in India 2026.

Lakmé Salon – Beauty & Wellness

• Investment Range: ₹40–50 lakh
• Expected ROI: Strong

Why Top 10:

• India's best-known salon and beauty brand.
• Continual product innovations under Lakmé.
• Great training and branding support from the franchisor.
• High repeat customer base thanks to beauty trends.

2026 Growth:

• More salons in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
• Demand for eco-friendly and organic beauty treatments.
• Rising popularity of male grooming services.
• One of the best franchises in India 2026 for lifestyle and wellness.

PharmEasy – Retail & Healthcare

• Investment Range: ₹15–25 lakh
• Expected ROI: High

Why Top 10:

• One of the fastest-growing healthcare brands in India, with both online and offline presence.
• Low cost of entry compared to other retail healthcare franchises.
• A strong customer base helps investors to get steady business.

2026 Growth:

• Expansion of offline pharmacy in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
• App based order increases sales..
• Partnerships with diagnostic labs and wellness brands for end-to-end healthcare solutions.
• One of the highest returning healthcare franchise ventures in India 2026.

KFC India – Quick Service Restaurant

• Investment Range: ₹1–2 crore
• Expected ROI: High

Why Top 10:

• Fried chicken is a worldwide favorite — KFC reigns supreme.
• Global supply chain and robust franchisor support.
• High brand recall keeps the outlets buzzing.
• Well-suited for those who have grand ambitions.

2026 Growth:

• Opening delivery-focused, smaller outlets in metros.
• Growing closer to colleges and business parks.
• Launch of new Indian vegetarian menu offerings.
• Ranked as one of the top Indian franchises in 2026.

EuroKids – Preschool & Education

• Investment Range: ₹10–20 lakh
• Expected ROI: Strong

Why Top 10:

• Reputed preschool chain with decades of success.
• Education is recession-proof, always in demand.
• Excellent training and curriculum assistance to franchisees.
• Affordable relative to most F&B franchises.

2026 Growth:

• Significant expansion in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
• Inclusion of AI and digital learning platforms.
• Increasing demand for branded preschool experiences.
• One of the lucrative franchise in India 2026 for consistent income.

Jockey – Apparel & Lifestyle

• Investment Range: ₹30–40 lakh
• Expected ROI: Medium to High

Why Top 10:

• Highly trusted apparel brand in India.
• Innerwear and athleisure have high demand.
• Repeat buys ensure steady revenue.
• Strong retail brand for shopping malls and shopping centers.

2026 Growth:

• Increased exclusive brand stores in India.
• Increase in demand from fashion-forward youth in Tier 2 cities.
• Sustainable fabrics and eco-friendly collections focus.
• One of the newest franchise opportunities in India in 2026 for a lifestyle.

Tanishq – Jewellery & Retail

• Investment Range: ₹1–2 crore
• Expected ROI: High

Why Top 10

• Supported by the Tata Group, India's most trusted name.
• National brand with premium jewellery appeal.
• Clients perceive Tanishq as trustworthy and quality-oriented.
• Marketing and store establishment are supported by a good franchisor.

2026 Growth:

• Heavy expansion in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
• Continuous growth in gold and diamond jewellery sales.
• Introduction of light-weight and daily-wear ranges of jewellery.
• Ranked among the top franchises in India 2026 for luxury retail.
• Best Franchise in India 2026 for Luxury Retail

Upcoming Franchise Trends in India 2026 

The top 10 franchise in India 2026 will dominate, but several of you are also interested in knowing new brands and industries that may provide large opportunities. Let us discuss some of the freshest franchise opportunities in India 2026 that are being introduced to the market and defining future trends.

New Global Brands to Enter India

• Lululemon (Retail, Activewear): The international activewear brand is gearing up to enter India in 2026 with a franchise tie-up with Tata CLiQ. This entry indicates solid demand for high-end lifestyle and fitness brands in the Indian market.
• Papa John's Pizza (QSR): Papa John's is gearing up for a big return in India, targeting hundreds of outlets by 2035. The phase of rollout will begin from 2026, providing new franchise opportunities in India and cost opportunities for players wanting to get into food and beverage businesses.
• Little Caesars (Pizza Chain): Another global pizza chain is expanding to India with an aim to reach 100 outlets by the end of this decade. Investors planning to enter the quick-service restaurant segment should keep an eye on this brand.
• Carrefour (Retailing Behemoth): The French retailing group is spreading its wings in India via a franchise deal with Dubai-based Apparel Group. Another indication that world retailing chiefs are looking at India as a growth priority.

Most Important Trends to Watch in 2026

You are wondering if you are looking for a franchise available in India in 2026, which will do well. These trends are the way to go:

• Cloud Kitchens: Food delivery online is on the rise. Low-investment cloud kitchen franchises will find many entrepreneurs looking for a food business with minimal overhead.
• Health and Wellness: Gyms, organic food shops, yoga studios, and wellness products are all part of a thriving market. This industry will generate some of the most lucrative franchises in India 2026.
• Preschool and Education: Education is recession-proof. Preschool and skill-training franchises will grow vigorously in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, providing solid business opportunities in India.
• Sustainable Businesses: Conscious consumers are fueling demand for green brands across food, retail, and personal care. Sustainability-focused franchises will be noticed and build long-term customers.

Conclusion

Franchising is one of the finest business ventures in India today. You can have a stable income and long-term growth with the correct brand, location, and strategy.

The top 10 franchises in India 2026, such as Domino's, McDonald's, Apollo Pharmacy, Lakmé, and FirstCry, remain leaders, while newcomers such as Lululemon, Papa John's, and Carrefour offer promising opportunities.

Keep yourself updated with the newest franchise opportunities in India 2026 and make the first move towards your entrepreneurial journey today!

FAQs

Q1. What is the most profitable franchise in India in 2026?

Healthcare (Apollo Pharmacy), QSR (Domino's, McDonald's, KFC), and education (EuroKids) are the most profitable.

Q2. What is the lowest investment for a franchise in India?

It can begin as low as ₹2–5 lakh (DTDC, small kiosks) and increase to ₹10 crore for large retail or QSR brands.

Q3. Which industry is optimum for franchising in 2026?

Food & Beverage, Healthcare, Education, Logistics, and Retail are the best growth industries.

Q4. Is franchising a good enterprise in India?

Yes, franchising lets you begin with an existing brand, thereby lessening risks against beginning from scratch.

Q5. What is the best low-budget franchise for newbies in India?

DTDC offers FirstCry, EuroKids, and a few cloud kitchen brands that are perfect for newbie operators with lower budgets.

Disclaimer: The brands mentioned in this blog are the recommendations provided by the author. FranchiseBAZAR does not claim to work with these brands / represent them / or are associated with them in any manner. Investors and prospective franchisees are to do their own due diligence before investing in any franchise business at their own risk and discretion. FranchiseBAZAR or its Directors disclaim any liability or risks arising out of any transactions that may take place due to the information provided in this blog.