Franchising Booms Under Retail Umbrella

Hindustan Times:

Beneath the umbrella of big brand growth in the country’s retail industry, small businesses are throwing up new opportunities for first-time entrepreneurs. For those jumping from the world of jobs to business, franchising could be the best option.

From idly stalls and salons to apparel to furniture and IT teaching shops, franchising is becoming an option for expansion for many industries, and this is churning out opportunities for partners. The investment can be as low as Rs. 1.75 lakhs and as high as Rs. 80 lakhs for a restaurant franchise. It is one of the world’s fastest growing and most lucrative industries with a turnover running into an estimated $2 trillion, Dhawal Shah, Deputy Executive Officer, Franchising Association of India, told Hindustan Times.

While IT shops have led the game in India, apparel retail is one of the most hot and happening. Brands like Numero Uno, Blackberry and Greg Norman amongst others are all exploring the franchising opportunity.

Greg Norman recently separated from Reebok and is now looking out for franchisees. Read more.