The FOCO (Franchise-Owned, Company-Operated) model is really catching on in India right now. It’s a smart way to franchise without piling on risk. Here’s how it works: investors put up the money for the setup and infrastructure, but the brand takes care of the day-to-day running of the place. That means you get reliable quality, tighter control, and a better shot at turning a profit. You’ll find this approach everywhere—from quick-service restaurants and bakeries to coffee shops, gyms, salons, diagnostic centers, coworking spaces, and even EV charging stations. Most people put in anywhere from ₹10 lakh to ₹90 lakh, and the monthly revenue usually falls between ₹4 lakh and ₹22 lakh. EBITDA margins land somewhere between 12% and 30%, which is pretty healthy. On average, people see their money back in about a year and a half to just over three years.

In this article we are going to cover the 15 profitable FOCO model business ideas and everything related to them that you must know before investing into them.
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1) Quick-service & casual dining restaurant (national brand FOCO)

The FOCO (Franchise-Owned, Company-Operated) model is catching on fast with quick-service and casual dining brands in India. It works pretty well—brands stay in the driver’s seat, running day-to-day operations, while investors put up the money for setup and collect passive income. If you’re looking for stable, asset-backed returns, this model makes sense. India’s QSR industry is booming right now, growing at about 18–20% each year from 2024 to 2028, thanks to more people living in cities, food delivery apps, and shifting eating habits. FOCO outlets look promising.
You usually need to invest anywhere from ₹50 lakh to ₹3.5 crore, depending on whether you’re opening a small kiosk or a big restaurant. Monthly revenue tends to fall between ₹8 and ₹40 lakh, with EBITDA margins in the 10–25% range. Most investors get their money back in 2–4 years, especially if they pick busy spots like malls or transit hubs. Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing—you’ve got to watch out for rising rents, staff shortages, and supply chain hiccups that can eat into profits.

2) Diagnostic / Pathology & Imaging Centre (branded diagnostics FOCO)

Switch over to diagnostics and pathology, and you’ll see a sector that’s growing just as fast—about 11–13% each year from 2024 to 2028. More people are getting health-conscious, going for preventive tests, and dealing with lifestyle diseases. In this business, FOCO works because it keeps labs following strict SOPs and quality standards, which matter a lot for accuracy and accreditation.
Investors pay for the lab’s infrastructure and equipment, while the brand runs operations and handles all the testing protocols. To get started, you might need ₹10 lakh to ₹60 lakh for a basic collection center, or ₹30 lakh to ₹2.5 crore if you’re setting up a full imaging clinic. Revenue ranges widely—from ₹3 to ₹20 lakh a month—with EBITDA margins between 18–35%. Most labs recoup the investment in 18–36 months. Big names like Dr. Lal PathLabs are already using FOCO to expand all over India.

3) Branded quick grocery/supermarket (FOCO supermarkets)

This sector’s on the rise too, growing at about 10–12% a year through 2028. It’s mostly thanks to more urban living, people having more to spend, and a real shift toward modern, organized retail. The FOCO setup lets supermarket chains control procurement and merchandising from the center, so customers get a consistent experience wherever they shop. Investors pay to set up the store, usually between ₹25 lakh and ₹80 lakh for a 1,000–2,000 sq. ft. outlet.
Monthly revenue can hit anywhere from ₹10 to ₹50 lakh, depending on location and what people are putting in their baskets. EBITDA margins are a bit thinner here—around 6–12%—but the model makes up for it with high turnover and less wastage. Payback usually takes 30–60 months. Still, you need to keep an eye on inventory costs and perishable goods, or profits can slip away.

4) Health & wellness clinics / multi-specialty outpatient centres

The outpatient and primary healthcare scene is changing fast. More people want preventive care and easy access to clinics, and the sector’s growing 12–14% every year until 2028. The FOCO model fits well here, especially for big hospital chains looking to reach more people. As usual, the investor sets up the clinic and buys equipment, while the brand runs everything—hiring, operations, and medical oversight—to keep care consistent.
Starting a multi-specialty or wellness clinic means investing anywhere from ₹20 lakh to ₹1.5 crore, depending on how big you want to go. Monthly revenue for these clinics usually lands between ₹5 and ₹25 lakh, with EBITDA margins from 18–35%. Investors tend to break even in 24–48 months. Many hospital networks are already rolling out FOCO clinics to widen their reach.

5) Branded quick-service coffee/beverage counters (mall/office FOCO)

There’s the coffee and beverage retail market. This space is heating up, set to grow at around 9–11% a year through 2028, thanks to a growing café culture, more disposable income, and people wanting better drinks on the go. The FOCO model shines here because brands can keep things like taste and service on point everywhere. Investors put up the capital to open a café or kiosk, and the brand takes care of daily operations, staff training, and supply chain, making sure customers get the same quality every time.
The initial investment ranges from ₹8 lakh to ₹45 lakh, depending on size and location, with monthly revenues of ₹3–12 lakh and EBITDA margins of 12–28% in metro or high-footfall areas. The payback period is typically 12–36 months, making it a promising option for passive investors seeking steady returns.
Also read: Top 10 beverages business ideas in India

6) Express laundry/dry-cleaning and value-added garment services

India’s laundry and dry-cleaning industry is changing fast. Urban lifestyles, busy families, and a craving for convenience are pushing that shift. This business is set to grow at about 10–12% a year from 2024 to 2028. More people want tech-powered, branded laundry services now. The FOCO (Franchise-Owned, Company-Operated) model fits perfectly here. It keeps quality and service consistent, thanks to central controls and clear processes.
The brand handles pickups, deliveries, and daily operations; investors put in the money for the setup and equipment. Opening a modern neighborhood outlet takes anywhere from ₹6 lakh to ₹30 lakh, depending on how big you go and where you set up shop. Most outlets pull in between ₹2–8 lakh a month, with EBITDA margins of 10–22%. Investors usually recover their money in 18–36 months. Outlets near apartment complexes or housing societies do especially well since people keep coming back.

7) Quick-turn car service / authorised service outlet (multi-brand or single brand FOCO)

The automotive service and maintenance industry in India is on a steady climb, too. More vehicles on the road and a shift toward organized, tech-focused service centers are fueling this growth. Analysts expect this sector to grow by 8–10% a year through 2028. More car owners, warranty-linked servicing, and demand for reliable repairs are all driving the trend. FOCO works great here as well. It lets brands keep quality sharp and processes tight. Investors cover the cost of the workshop and equipment, while the company manages technicians and customer service.
Setting up a workshop with 1–3 service bays costs between ₹20 lakh and ₹1.2 crore, depending on size. These centers typically make ₹4–25 lakh each month, with EBITDA margins of 12–30%. Payback usually happens within 24–48 months if you’re in a busy or residential area.

8) Specialty retail (beauty salons / branded spas)—FOCO spas

Salons and spas? They’re booming. People have more disposable income, care more about self-presentation, and want a bit of pampering. The sector’s growing at a healthy 12–15% a year, with premium chains and wellness brands popping up everywhere. FOCO models really shine in this space—they guarantee trained staff, steady service quality, and reliable supplies of premium products. Investors handle the initial investment for space, interiors, and rent, while the brand takes care of operations, training, and marketing.
Setting up a salon or spa (think 800–2,000 sq. ft.) costs anywhere from ₹12 lakh to ₹70 lakh. Monthly revenues usually fall between ₹3–18 lakh, and EBITDA margins sit at 15–30%. Most investors get their money back within 18–36 months. For anyone looking at wellness, this is a stable, profitable way in.

9) Kiosk / dark-kitchen cluster (delivery-first FOCO)

Cloud kitchens and food delivery are on fire right now. Digital ordering and the rise of delivery platforms have made this one of the hottest segments in food and beverage. The industry’s set to grow by 15–17% a year through 2028. FOCO is a no-brainer for cloud kitchens. Brands keep menus consistent, kitchens clean, and delivery smooth—all of which matter for customer trust.
Investors cover the kitchen fit-out; the brand handles the staff and day-to-day running. A delivery-only kitchen usually takes ₹6 lakh to ₹35 lakh to set up, depending on size and the city. Monthly revenues run ₹4–18 lakh, with EBITDA margins of 12–28%. In busy areas, payback comes in 12–30 months.

10) Branded education & coaching centres (test prep, skill labs)

Education and skill development in India just keep growing. Parents want better test prep, young people want job-ready skills, and digital upskilling is everywhere. This sector should clock in at 14–16% annual growth through 2028, helped by both government initiatives and private innovation. The FOCO model guarantees steady quality and standardized teaching across different centers. The company handles the curriculum, faculty training, and assessments, keeping standards high. Investors put in the money for infrastructure and equipment—usually between ₹5 lakh and ₹30 lakh, depending on how big or specialized the center is.
Monthly revenues generally range from ₹2 lakh to ₹12 lakh, with EBITDA margins of 20–40%—especially high for niche or premium coaching and upskilling programs. The payback period is attractive at 12–30 months, particularly in student-dense or residential neighborhoods.
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11) Pharmacy chain or clinic-attached retail (branded retail FOCO)

India’s pharmacy retail and healthcare products market is on a fast track. More people care about their health, digital tools make getting medicine easier, and access keeps spreading. The sector’s expected to grow at about 10–12% a year from 2024 to 2028, thanks to rising demand for chronic care, wellness items, and the convenience of e-pharmacies. In this scene, the FOCO (Franchise-Owned, Company-Operated) model stands out—pharmacy chains like it because company-run stores can keep a tight grip on quality, laws, and the supply chain. Safety and prescription rules matter here, so it’s not something you want to leave to chance.
Investors usually pay for the interiors, fixtures, and starting inventory, putting in anywhere from ₹5 lakh to ₹25 lakh depending on where and how big the store is. These outlets usually bring in ₹4–18 lakh a month, run with EBITDA margins between 6–14%, and investors get their money back in 18–36 months, especially if they mix in over-the-counter and wellness products, which really help with profits.

12) Franchise-style convenience & fuel-adjacent retail (mini marts)

Fuel retail and convenience stores in India are quietly picking up speed too. More cars on the road, new highways, and the need for quick pit stops all add up. The market’s set to grow at 8–10% a year through 2028, with oil companies and retail brands rolling out more locations. The FOCO model fits well here—brands get to keep control over fuel quality, logistics, and loyalty programs, which means customers get the same experience wherever they stop.
In this setup, investors provide the land and pay for building the outlet, while the company handles staff and daily operations. You’re looking at a capital outlay of ₹15 lakh to ₹75 lakh, depending on the place and format. Monthly revenues usually land between ₹8–30 lakh, EBITDA margins sit at 6–14%, and investors see payback in about 24–60 months. It’s a steady, asset-backed way to grow.

13) Senior-care / assisted living satellite centres (franchise operated by brand)

Eldercare and home healthcare services are booming, and it’s no surprise. India’s population is aging, more families live apart, and people want reliable care at home. The sector’s expected to grow at 14–16% a year from 2024 to 2028. Demand is rising in both cities and smaller towns, with families looking for safe, quality care delivered at home. The FOCO model really shines here because strict medical and hygiene protocols are non-negotiable. The company runs the show—managing trained staff, setting protocols, and keeping standards high—while investors supply the space and funding.
Opening a small healthcare center costs between ₹25 lakh and ₹1.5 crore, based on the size and services. These typically bring in ₹6–30 lakh each month, with strong EBITDA margins of 15–30%, and investors usually break even in 24–48 months.

14) Specialty food retail (bakery, chocolatier, premium desserts)

India’s bakery and café scene is on fire, powered by city life, changing tastes, and the love of fresh, premium baked goods. The market should grow at 10–12% a year through 2028, with more people choosing branded bakeries for that dependable taste. The FOCO model works perfectly here—recipes, baking quality, and handling perishables are all brand secrets, so the company needs control.
Brands run the day-to-day, keep everything consistent, and handle staffing, while the investor puts money into the look of the store and the equipment. Starting a bakery takes ₹10 lakh to ₹90 lakh, depending on where you set up and what size you go for. A typical outlet pulls in ₹4–22 lakh a month, keeps EBITDA margins at 12–30%, and pays back in 18–40 months—especially if you’re in a busy urban area or a mall.

15) Tech-enabled service hubs (co-working café hybrids, print studios, last-mile logistics micro-hub)

Bakery and confectionery businesses are growing fast too, thanks to bigger paychecks, changing eating habits, and the rise of café culture. The market’s expected to grow at 10–12% a year through 2028, with more people craving fresh, clean, high-quality baked treats. The FOCO model fits this business perfectly—company-level control over recipes and production keeps everything fresh and consistent. Centralized operations prevent surprises so every customer gets the same taste and quality. Here, investors put money into the decor, kitchen setup, and equipment, while the company takes care of running the store, hiring, and managing the supply chain.
The initial investment ranges from ₹10 lakh to ₹90 lakh, depending on the outlet size and location. Typically, monthly revenues fall between ₹4–22 lakh, with EBITDA margins of 12–30% and a payback period of 18–40 months, especially in premium or high-footfall areas.
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Why FOCO works in India now

• Rapid brand scale & quality control needs: As brands expand across many cities, preserving consistent customer experience (food safety, medical accuracy, service quality) is vital. FOCO lets the brand protect its reputation even when investors fund expansion.
• Investor appetite for passive returns: Many HNIs and family offices prefer asset ownership without operational management—FOCO meets that need. Industry write-ups show increasing FOCO adoption across QSRs, diagnostics, spas, and supermarkets.
• Easier central procurement & technology deployment: Company operation enables centralized procurement, inventory control, and tech rollouts (POS, CRM, delivery integrations), improving margins and reliability.

Is FOCO right for you?

The FOCO model finds a sweet spot between owning a business outright and going the classic franchise route. You get the best of both worlds: the security of investing in something steady, plus the peace of mind that comes from having the brand handle the tough stuff. Whether it’s a fitness studio, bakery, coworking hub, or an EV charging point, FOCO setups keep things running smoothly, keep customers happy, and let businesses scale up faster.
Investors like this setup because they know what to expect—steady returns, less stress, and risk that’s actually manageable. Brands love it because they don’t have to hand over control of quality or the customer experience. With investments ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore and payback in about 18 to 40 months, FOCO isn’t just for the big players. Up-and-coming entrepreneurs are jumping in too. As India’s consumer markets keep exploding and organized retail keeps maturing, this model’s only going to get more popular. It’s a solid blueprint for anyone looking to grow in 2026 and beyond.

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