Best Ice Cream Franchises in India (2025): Low Investment, High Profit Ideas
If you’re thinking of starting a dessert business in India, ice cream franchises are a smart bet for 2025. With India’s love for frozen treats and growing demand for branded dessert experiences, ice cream franchises offer a cool combination of affordability, profit potential, and brand support.
Let’s scoop into the top-performing, low-investment ice cream franchise options in India you should consider this year!
Table of Contents
Why Start an Ice Cream Franchise in India?
- Rising Demand: India is the world’s largest consumer of dairy and has a massive youth population craving quick, quality desserts.
- Affordable Entry Point: Most ice cream franchises start under ₹8–10 lakhs, making it easy for new entrepreneurs.
- All-Season Appeal: Though summer spikes sales, products like sundaes, kulfis, and shakes ensure year-round revenue.
- Franchise Support: From branding to logistics and training, franchisors offer complete setup guidance.
💡 Franchise Tip: Choose high-footfall areas like malls, colleges, and markets to ensure high daily sales.
Market Research & Demand Trends:
- India’s ice cream market is valued at over ₹20,000 crore in 2024 and projected to reach ₹30,000 crore by 2026.
- The industry is growing at a CAGR of 14%, driven by demand for branded experiences and indulgent snacking.
- Tier 2 & Tier 3 cities are seeing 25% YOY growth in dessert parlour footfalls.
- Demand for vegan, low-sugar, and exotic flavours is increasing across urban centres.
Top Ice Cream Franchise Opportunities in India (2025)
1. Polar Bear Franchise
- Founded: 2008 in Bangalore
- Known For: A Premium Sundae Zone for Desserts Lovers
- Investment: ₹35–50 lakhs
- Space Needed: 500–1000 sq. ft.
- Ideal For: Premium market areas, Tier 1 & 2 cities
📌 Read full details: Polar Bear Franchise
Quote to Inspire: “When you serve real ingredients, real loyalty follows.”
2. Baskin Robbins Franchise
- Founded: Global brand, entered India in 1993
- Known For: Global flavors, sundaes, take-home packs
- Investment: ₹10–12 lakhs
- Royalty: Approx. 4% of sales
- USP: International brand trust, aggressive marketing
📌 Read full details: Baskin Robbins Franchise
3. Cream Stone Franchise
- Known For: Customized stone-mixed ice creams, unique concepts
- Investment: ₹8–12 lakhs
- Returns: High in college areas & metros
- Bonus: Great for experiential dessert lovers
📌 Read full details: Cream Stone Franchise
4. Ibaco Franchise
- Parent Company: Hatsun Agro Product Ltd.
- Known For: Premium scoops, cakes, and value pricing
- Investment: ₹7–9 lakhs
- Support: End-to-end logistics, marketing, training
📌 Read full details: Ibaco Franchise
5. Gelato Vinto Franchise
- Known For: Italian-style gelatos, vegetarian offerings
- Investment: ₹8–10 lakhs
- Best Locations: Urban markets, malls, food courts
📌 Read full details: Gelato Vinto Franchise
Cost vs. Profit Potential
| Franchise Brand | Investment | Monthly Revenue Potential | Breakeven Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polar Bear | ₹35–50 L | ₹3–4.5 Lakh | 18–24 Months |
| Baskin Robbins | ₹10–12 L | ₹2.5–4 Lakh | 15–20 Months |
| Cream Stone | ₹8–12 L | ₹3–5 Lakh | 12–18 Months |
| Ibaco | ₹7–9 L | ₹2–3.5 Lakh | 12–18 Months |
| Gelato Vinto | ₹8–10 L | ₹2.5–3.5 Lakh | 15–20 Months |
Note: ROI depends on location, footfall, local competition & marketing.
Who Should Start an Ice Cream Franchise?
| Ideal For | Reason to Start |
|---|---|
| First-time entrepreneurs | Easy to operate, strong brand support |
| Women entrepreneurs | Low-risk, quick setup, manageable staff size |
| Food & beverage lovers | Creative, fun business with tasty rewards |
| Small investors | High margin, low wastage |
| Youth in Tier 2/3 cities | Growing demand for branded desserts |
🧠 Did You Know? India’s ice cream consumption per capita is still below global averages—making it a ripe market for growth!
Best Time to Open an Ice Cream Franchise?
Although summer drives peak footfall, starting just before the season (Feb–March) helps you:
- Train staff
- Build local buzz
- Benefit from seasonal demand right away
Pro Tip: Launch during local festivals or events for maximum footfall.
Documents Needed to Apply
- PAN & Aadhaar card
- Passport size photos
- Bank passbook/cancelled cheque
- Address proof
- Commercial property details (if available)
Final Scoop: Why Ice Cream Franchises Are a Sweet Business in 2025
Ice cream franchises in India are no longer just summer treats—they’re year-round, high-margin businesses with wide audience appeal. With minimal waste, scalable formats (kiosks, cafes), and growing demand for premium & healthy options, starting an ice cream franchise in 2025 is a deliciously smart move.
Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or a dessert lover with savings, investing in a low-investment, high-profit ice cream brand could be your gateway to business success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Best Ice Cream Franchises
Q1. Which is the most profitable ice cream franchise in India?
Brands like Cream Stone and Naturals tend to offer high returns in premium markets with good footfall.
Q2. Can I start an ice cream franchise with ₹5 lakhs?
Some kiosk models may start under ₹6–7 lakhs, but most popular brands require ₹8–12 lakhs.
Q3. Is prior F&B experience necessary?
No. Most franchises offer full training and operational support.
Q4. Which cities are best for new ice cream outlets?
Tier 2 cities like Pune, Surat, Coimbatore, and Bhubaneswar are seeing high growth.
Q5. What are the main operational challenges?
Temperature control, stock rotation, and maintaining product quality are critical for success.
