There has been remarkable growth in the Indian ice cream sector as people look for high-quality frozen desserts. In fact, the market is growing at 14.2% annually and is expected to reach ₹508.4 billion by 2028, outpacing India’s overall economic growth. This surge reflects rising demand, even during economic slowdowns—making ice cream a resilient and attractive business opportunity.
The name Baskin-Robbins is instantly connected with quality, variety, and indulgence. Since entering India in 1993, the brand has built a strong presence with over 800 outlets and annual revenue exceeding ₹780 crores, thanks to its successful partnership with the Graviss Group and growing reach through e-commerce.
Before stepping into the food and beverage business, entrepreneurs must understand the Baskin Robbins franchise cost. This guide covers in detail the different expenses, fees, and potential returns related to running a Baskin Robbins franchise. Read on to learn what every aspiring or seasoned franchisee should know to join the Baskin Robbins family. We’ll explore the different franchise models, investment requirements, and brand support that make this a rewarding venture in India’s expanding dessert market.
About Baskin Robbins
In 1945, Burton Baskin and Irvine Robbins founded Baskin Robbins in California, which today is one of the world’s biggest chains of ice cream specialty stores. The ice cream brand revolutionized the industry by introducing 31 different flavors for people to choose from daily. Currently, Baskin Robbins is present in over 52 countries worldwide with 8,000 outlets and serves more than 300 million customers yearly.
Because the brand focuses on being innovative and delivering quality, it is recognized worldwide. Because Baskin Robbins always brings out unique flavors and seasonal dishes, it remains a leader in the frozen dessert market. You can find traditional vanilla and chocolate at Cold Stone, but also try exciting flavors such as Mint Chocolate Chip and Cookies’n Cream.
The reason Baskin Robbins is attractive to franchise investors is that it provides memorable service with premium and creative ingredients which keeps customers loyal to the brand.
Launch of Baskin Robbins in India
In 1993, Baskin Robbins set foot in India and launched a series of growth milestones in the country. The brand began by working with Graviss Foods, as India was seen as having a big opportunity in the ice cream industry. The moment was ideal, given that India was undergoing rapid city expansion and the middle class was spending more money.
The first step was offering ice cream only in significant cities such as Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore and the brand began to be embraced by a lot of ice cream lovers. Indians were happy to try American-style ice cream parlors which gave them access to various delicious flavors and made the whole process of choosing and serving their ice cream fun to watch. The brand added special flavors to its menu and introduced seasonal goods in India.
In the past three decades, Baskin Robbins has opened over 700 outlets in India and is now recognized as a top premium ice cream brand here. In India, the company has shown demand for ice cream and how well its franchise adapts locally, but it still meets expectations worldwide.
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What Makes Baskin Robbins a Franchise Worth Considering?
Many factors make Baskin Robbins a distinctive choice in the food and beverage franchise market. Its brand grows stronger with each passing year, benefiting as customers remain loyal because of its constant efforts to be innovative and sell quality. As a result, franchisees benefit from the brand’s popularity, which makes it less difficult for them to reach profitability.
Strong Market Demand: The Indian ice cream industry is expanding rapidly at a 14.2% CAGR, projected to reach ₹508.4 billion by 2028, outpacing India’s GDP growth.
Established Brand Presence: Baskin Robbins generates ₹780+ crores in annual revenue and operates 800+ outlets across 230+ cities, backed by its 30+ year partnership with the Graviss Group.
Multiple Revenue Streams
- Franchisees earn through more than just scoops:
- Ice cream cakes
- Snacks and drinks
- Seasonal and festive product lines
- Corporate catering and gifting options
High Profit Margins & ROI
- Kiosks: ~50% profit margin
- Standard Parlors: ~46–48%
- Premium Lounges: ~52%
Most franchisees recover their investment within 3–5 years
- Affordable Investment Options: Franchise models range from ₹11.5 lakhs to ₹24.5 lakhs, making it accessible for various investor levels.
- Comprehensive Franchise Support
Baskin Robbins helps with:
- Site selection and setup
- Staff training and SOPs
- Marketing assets and local promotions
Continuous business and operational support
- Supply Chain & Quality Consistency: A reliable backend ensures consistent product quality and optimized procurement costs across outlets.
- Tech-Driven Sales Growth: Digitally-enabled stores have seen a 23% boost in average purchase size, thanks to POS integration and online ordering systems.
- Future Growth Potential: Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are growing faster than metros, with a 16.3% YoY growth rate, making them ideal for new store expansion.
The size of the franchise enables its franchisees to receive top-quality goods at reduced prices. As a result of these factors, investors in a franchise business can expect to benefit from both security and the opportunity for expansion.
Different Baskin Robbins Franchise Models
Three different types of franchises are available at Baskin Robbins to suit investors based on their ability and location.
Kiosk Model
As the most convenient choice, it suits busy areas such as malls, airports, and commercial buildings. A normal kiosk covers around 150 to 300 square feet, selling grab-and-go ice cream. Many potential franchisees join because the start-up cost is not too much. The design of kiosks helps increase efficiency and reduce the complexity of running a business, without lowering the brand’s quality.
Parlour Model
Traditional ice cream shops ranging between 500 and 800 square feet, ready for people to stay and enjoy all the food and drinks. These parlours come with plenty of seating spots, all of Baskin Robbins’ various products, and are designed for customers to feel at ease while dining. The model is medium-priced and designed for places near neighborhoods, store,s and parts of the city with busy traffic.
Lounge Model
This premium service is 1000-1500 square feet and features ice cream as well as a café vibe. Lounges give you extra space to sit, a wide range of drinks, more food, and a stylish environment ideal for getting together with friends. With the highest investment comes the chance to make the most with various products and a long stay for customers on the premises.
Baskin Robbins Cost Breakdown
Franchise Fee
- Security Deposit: INR 50,000
- Branding Fee: INR 4-5 lakhs
Depends on outlet type and city tier (higher in metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru)
Covers:
- Brand usage rights
- Access to Baskin Robbins’ trademark, recipes & proven business systems
- Training, consulting & marketing support
- Franchise term: 5 to 10 years
Interior & Setup
Costs vary by model and size
Covers:
- Branded store décor & furniture
- Lighting, flooring, counters, signage
- Creating an inviting brand-compliant environment
Kitchen & Equipment
Includes:
- Ice cream freezers, mixers, soft-serve machines
- Topping dispensers and blenders
- POS system, billing software, tablets/computers
Initial Inventory
Start-up stock includes:
- Wide range of ice cream flavors, cones, toppings
- Packaging materials, cups, napkins, merchandise
- Ensures uninterrupted service at launch
Initial Inventory
- External signage, menu boards, decals, lightboxes
- Follows global brand guidelines for consistency
Initial Inventory
For day-to-day expenses in the first few months:
- Rent, utility bills, salaries, raw materials
- Critical for smooth early-stage operations
Marketing & Store Launch
Used for:
- Grand opening events, influencer campaigns
- Local advertising, digital promotions, free sampling
- Creating initial brand buzz and footfall
Legal, Documentation & Licenses
Covers:
- GST registration, health permits, FSSAI license
- Local municipal and labor law compliance
Typical Investment Range
| Model | Approx. Area | Investment Range | Profit Margin |
| Kiosk | 150–300 sq. ft. | ₹11.5 – ₹13 Lakhs | ~50% |
| Parlour | 500–800 sq. ft. | ₹16 – ₹19 Lakhs | ~46–48% |
| Lounge | 1000–1500 sq. ft. | ₹21 – ₹24.5 Lakhs | ~52% |
Factors Influencing the Initial Investment Cost
Franchise Model Selection
Your decision on where your Baskin Robbins will be located can greatly alter its franchise price. Kiosks are built to be compact and to work fast, so the initial cost to start one is generally lower. Another way, creating a café-style environmen,t calls for more room, expensive interior designs, and extra workers, all of which raise the initial cost. Setting up and running a cloud service varies depending on the model and the expectations for infrastructure and design.
Store Size and Layout Requirements
Creating a luxurious atmosphere in large stores means more money for flooring, walls, lighting, seating, and general décor. Naturally, you will pay more for a Baskin Robbins franchise if the store is bigger. Big-sized homes result in greater upkeep and utilities, both of which must be considered when planning your budget.
Location and Rental Costs
If you place your store in a busy shopping area, you can sell more goods, but the rent and deposit costs will be much higher. Because prime areas in top cities are costly to rent, have strict regulations, and require security deposits, opening a Baskin Robbins franchise there is more expensive. Each region has its costs that should be studied for any possible return.
Local Construction and Labor Charges
The costs for civil works and interior decoration may be different in various cities due to the price of materials, rates offered by contractors, and access to workers in each location. Places requiring higher labor and complex licenses likely will have higher start-up costs. To ensure the Baskin Robbins franchise cost is accurate, the franchise needs to allow for different construction requirements in each region.
Equipment and Logistics Costs
The amount you pay for ice cream display units, blast freezers, storage refrigerators, and point-of-sale systems depends on the country of delivery and taxes. Due to limited access in remote regions, moving and placing the equipment can sometimes be expensive. The expense for equipment can be crucial to the overall cost of becoming a Baskin Robbins franchise, especially if any special machines are needed.
Estimated Total Investment Range
The Baskin Robbins franchise cost is not the same for each model.
- Kiosk: You will find kiosks available for ₹11.5 – ₹13 Lakhs.
- Parlour: Prices range between ₹16 – ₹19 Lakhs
- Lounge: Price of a lounge ranges from ₹21 – ₹24.5 Lakhs.
All costs associated with setting up the project are factored in, but any continuing expenses for running it and its financial needs are left out.
Ongoing Costs of a Baskin Robbins Franchise in India
Setting up and running a this franchise means franchisees have consistent day-to-day costs to consider. Regularly, the main expense is paying the royalty fee, which is calculated as a percentage of monthly gross sales. This cost allows companies to proceed with the brand, obtain help for future efforts, receive advertising assistance, and gain access to new ideas.
Staff members have to be compensated and other benefits have to be provided because ice cream outlets require them to make, serve and manage the store. Maintaining the right temperature for frozen food requires a lot of electricity and water. Continuously acquiring ice cream, toppings, packaging and retail products is a widespread expense in any ice cream parlor.
Marketing and advertising fees, payments for insurance, keeping equipment in good shape and rent form other regular costs for the company. Ideally, everyone involved should plan for routine store renovations, new equipment and meeting brand requirements to keep their place in the market.
How Much Can You Earn? Profit & ROI Expectations
Gauging the expected returns is necessary when you look at the pricing of this franchises. Depending on the location, management and market conditions, a Baskin Robbins is likely to reach break-even in 18-24 months. For kiosks, monthly earnings can be between ₹3-8 lakhs, between ₹5-15 lakhs for parlours and ₹8-25 lakhs for lounges.
Typically, ice cream businesses make good profits, as gross margins are 60-70% on ice creams and 40-50% on any other items. Most companies achieve a net profit margin of 15-25% when all their expenses are considered. Most people who own a franchise can expect to earn back their investment within 3 to 4 years after opening.
The earnings from an investment can vary, but are usually 25% to 35% each year for properly run locations in good places. Most sales and high earning happen during the summer and festive season, whereas some areas may have lower earnings in winter. Smart people involved in franchising add catering, corporate orders and seasonal specials to potentially increase profits all year.
Earning Potential by City Tier:
| City Tier | Avg. Monthly Revenue | Avg. Net Profit/Month | ROI Timeline |
| Tier 1 (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru) | ₹5 – ₹7 lakhs | ₹1.5 – ₹2.5 lakhs | 2.5 – 3.5 years |
| Tier 2 (Lucknow, Jaipur, Bhopal) | ₹3.5 – ₹5 lakhs | ₹1 – ₹1.8 lakhs | 3 – 4 years |
| Tier 3 (Raipur, Mysuru, Coimbatore) | ₹2.5 – ₹4 lakhs | ₹80K – ₹1.2 lakhs | 3.5 – 5 years |
Factors that Influence Profitability
Several factors play a big role in determining how much money franchisees make with a Baskin Robbins:
- Location Quality & Competition: Finding a highly visible, accessible location near your target customers is essential. Local competition and pricing also impact footfall and brand loyalty, so understanding the area helps highlight Baskin Robbins’ strengths.
- Seasonal Demand & Product Mix: Sales can increase by 30–40% in peak seasons. Franchisees should balance their menu with best-sellers and niche items, and plan well for both busy and slower months to maintain steady income.
- Operational Efficiency: Efficient daily operations with accurate inventory, productive staff, and strong cost controls help streamline business processes and increase profitability.
- Marketing & Brand Engagement: Local marketing, community involvement, and effective promotions are vital to draw attention. Tailored strategies allow franchises to connect with nearby audiences and boost traffic.
- Customer Service & Retention: Excellent service builds lasting customer relationships and encourages repeat visits. Satisfied customers promote the brand through positive word-of-mouth.
- Support & Innovation: Using the franchisor’s full support—marketing, training, and operations—gives franchisees a solid base. Keeping up with new products and tech helps stay ahead in a competitive market.
ROI Enhancers:
- High seasonal demand (especially in summer and festive seasons)
- Additional income streams (ice cream cakes, catering, merchandise)
- Low wastage and strong inventory controls
- Localized marketing and promotions
- Leveraging delivery platforms (Swiggy, Zomato)
Is a Baskin Robbins Franchise Right for You? Eligibility & Requirements
If you’re looking to enter a high-growth market with a globally trusted brand, Baskin Robbins offers a well-defined franchise ecosystem. Its proven business model, expanding product line (including vegan and no-sugar options), and consistent consumer demand—especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities—make it a strong fit for investors seeking moderate risk and high return.
Although, Many franchisors look for applicants who have a net worth equal to or greater than what the system requires. Franchisees should also be ready to take part in daily activities, especially while the business is setting up. To be successful in a franchise, one should demonstrate strong leadership, notice the little details, uphold quality standards, and genuinely care about running an ice cream business.
With over 800 outlets and annual revenue exceeding ₹780 crores, Backed by a strong partnership with the Graviss Group, the brand offers a structured and scalable franchise model.
Whether you’re a first-time business investor or a professional entrepreneur, a Baskin Robbins franchise in 2025 offers profit potential, brand prestige, and long-term stability in India’s fast-evolving dessert landscape.
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How to Apply for a Baskin Robbins Franchise in India
Typically, a this franchise requires candidates to use a set approach that tests their suitability with the company:
- Initial Inquiry: To start, go to the website and fill out an online form on www.baskinrobbinsindia.com, giving your basic data and initial financial information to submit your interest in operating a Baskin Robbins franchise.
- Preliminary Screening: During preliminary screening, the franchisor checks your application to see if you are financially ready, suitable for the location, and prepared to invest in the brand.
- Detailed Application: The franchise company requires that you complete a detailed application and supply recent bank statements, evidence of working in a business before, and clear signs of your willingness to pay for the franchise.
- Financial Verification: The franchise company requires that you complete a detailed application and supply recent bank statements, evidence of working in a business before and clear signs of your willingness to pay for the franchise.
- Location Discussion: Together with the franchise development team, search for future branches, study if the surroundings support the business, assess traffic, and be aware of potential competitors.
- Face-to-Face Meeting: Meet directly with the franchise team to discuss the goals and requirements of your business, how you plan to operate, what is expected from you and how you agree with Baskin Robbins’ objectives and principles.
- Final Approval: Once everything appears suitable, the franchisor will approve your application, enabling you to start discussing contracts.
- Legal Documentation: After your application is approved, proceed to sign the franchise agreement outlining all points and pay the agreed franchise fee.
- Site Finalization: With the support of the real estate and development team, complete the paperwork needed to secure your store’s location that is suitable for the franchise brands and has potential in the market.
- Store Setup: Build the store, decorate it, and add all the equipment based on the requirements provided by Baskin Robbins for consistency.
Support and Training Provided
Baskin Robbins helps its franchisees succeed in all areas of the business relationship:
- Initial Training Program: Attend a two to three-week course that aims to teach new franchisees and their teams how to manage the shop, make each product correctly, offer excellent customer service, and succeed in their business.
- Site Selection Assistance: You will be helped by the franchisor’s team in choosing the best places for your store, relying on demographics, detailed analysis of people in the area and availability of customers.
- Store Design and Setup: Gain assistance in organizing the store’s interior and structure so customers move around comfortably and space is well used. They ensure suitable supplies are purchased and put in place, all the time keeping in mind the brand’s appearances and rules for every store.
- Operations Manual: Access an operations manual that outlines in detail all the activities and procedures needed to ensure every franchise store runs smoothly every day.
- Marketing Support: Demonstrate the brand with effective advertising, along with well-designed materials, modern digital marketing resources, and personal help from the locally owned area to raise the profile of your business, win customers and generate sales using all channels.
- Supply Chain Management: All Baskin Robbins franchisees can rely on a trusted and proven supply chain, organized by the franchisor, to supply them with quality ingredients and packaging consistently.
- Technology Support: Receive full instruction on the system, as well as routine upgrades and technical help for all apps over the internet, to ensure smooth transactions, continuous tracking of items and insightful decision-making for the smooth running of the store.
- Quality Assurance: Ensure you are audited regularly by the franchisor using set feedback and improvement methods, which allow you to maintain the brand’s high quality, satisfy clients, and manage problems as they arise.
- Business Development: With Business Development services, get constant support and advice on how to enhance your growth, develop your offerings, improve tasks, and keep your profit steady.
- Peer Network: Join a private network together with other franchisees, where ideas, best tips, and partnerships are share,d which improves business results for individuals and the entire network.
Conclusion: Is it Worth the Investment?
After carefully reviewing the Baskin Robbins franchise cost and other important factors, this opportunity seems very promising for those who qualify. Since it is strong in ice cream, uses a successful business model, and supports its franchisees, the brand makes its venture less risky. Even though the first outlay for this franchise looks costly, serious investors can count on continuous earnings and business growth. Because more Indians now have disposable money and prefer different flavors, operating this franchise can be highly profitable. An additional lure for the Baskin Robbins franchise cost is that the company makes money in various ways all year round.
FAQs
How much money is required to open a Baskin Robbins franchise?
A kiosk model can be started with a minimum of ₹12-18 lakhs, while a lounge format costs ₹35-50 lakhs, both depending on the area and chosen size.
For how long is the agreement between the franchisor and the franchisee valid?
A normal franchise contract is valid for 5 to 10 years and can be renewed if the franchisee maintains its commitment.
Are previous jobs in the food sector required?
Experience in the food industry can be helpful, though it is not necessary. Baskin Robbins trains every franchisee intensively to boost their chances of success.
Which areas can we look to open Baskin Robbins outlets in?
Most ice cream outlets do best in areas like shopping malls, business complexes, crowded streets, and venues for entertainment.
How much should a franchisee pay each month?
Most franchisees need to pay 5-8% of their total income from monthly sales, as well as spending money on advertising.
