If you are interested in the dessert and quick-service food business in India, a Sujata Mastani franchise can be an attractive opportunity. Sujata Mastani is a popular ice-cream and mastani brand known for creamy desserts and unique flavours, especially in Maharashtra and other Indian markets. This article covers investment cost, fees, profit potential, manpower, franchisor support, pros & cons, eligibility criteria, application process, key risks, and FAQs in simple language.
🍨 Sujata Mastani Franchise
Sujata Mastani is an iconic Indian ice-cream and dessert brand started in Pune, known for its rich mastani (milk-based dessert) and ice-cream offerings. With rising demand for desserts and quick-serve outlets in urban and semi-urban India, this franchise opportunity attracts entrepreneurs seeking a compact, lower-investment food business.
💰 Investment Cost (INR)
The cost to start a Sujata Mastani franchise varies by location, store size, and format (kiosk vs store). Typical ranges based on reliable Indian franchise data are below:
| Expense Component | Approx. in INR |
| Franchise Fee | ₹1,00,000 (one-time) |
| Setup & Interiors | ₹5,00,000 – ₹10,00,000 |
| Equipment & Inventory | ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,00,000 |
| Working Capital & Misc. | ₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | ₹6,00,000 – ₹11,00,000 |
| Space Required | 100 – 300 sq.ft |
| (Higher ranges possible in premium locations or larger formats) |
🔎 This is a low-to-moderate investment model, ideal for small stores or kiosk-based dessert counters.
💼 Franchise Fee & Royalty
Franchise Fee
- Initial one-time franchise fee: ~₹1,00,000.
Royalty / Revenue Share
- Ongoing royalty is typically around 5% of gross sales paid monthly to the franchisor.
👉 Confirm exact percentages and payment terms in your agreement, as these can vary by location.
📈 Profit Margin & ROI
Profit potential depends on location, footfall, operating costs, and management skills:
- Gross Profit Margin: Dessert and ice-cream outlets generally enjoy high ingredient margins.
- Net Profit: Variable but evidence suggests modest outlet profits after costs.
- ROI / Breakeven: Most outlets may break even within 6–12 months under strong sales and cost control.
👉 Actual profits vary with rent, staff costs, seasonal demand (higher in summer), and promotional activities.
📍 Space & Manpower Needs
Space Requirements
| Store Type | Area Needed |
| Kiosk / Counter | 100 – 150 sq.ft |
| Small Store | 150 – 300 sq.ft |
| Larger Format | 300+ sq.ft (optional) |
| (Better locations often cost more rent but drive higher footfall) |
Manpower
- Basic staffing: 1–3 staff members based on outlet size.
- Roles may include service staff, dessert makers, and billing personnel.
🤝 Franchisor Support
A typical Sujata Mastani franchisor supports you with:
✔ Brand identity and marketing materials
✔ Operational training on recipes and service standards
✔ Menu standardisation and quality guidelines
✔ Supply channel advice or vendor lists
✔ Launch support and local promotions
The support reduces early operational challenges and ensures brand consistency.
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
✅ Pros
✔ Lower investment requirement compared to restaurants.
✔ Strong brand recognition in desserts and mastani segment.
✔ Compact store size keeps rent and staff costs manageable.
✔ Quick setup time (1–2 months typical).
❌ Cons
❗ Seasonal demand can affect sales (peak in summer).
❗ Royalty fees reduce net income.
❗ Success highly dependent on location and footfall.
❗ Contract terms may have specific restrictions — always read carefully.
📋 Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Sujata Mastani franchise, typically you should:
✔ Be at least 21 years old.
✔ Have the financial capacity to fund investment and working capital.
✔ Secure or obtain a suitable commercial location with good footfall.
✔ Be willing to follow brand operations and quality standards.
✔ Obtain legal licences (GST, FSSAI, Shop & Establishment).
Business experience is helpful but not always required.
✍️ Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
- Initial Research & Self-Assessment
Estimate your budget and identify potential locations. - Contact the Brand
Use the official franchise enquiry form or contact the Sujata Mastani franchise team. - Site Proposal & Evaluation
Submit details of your proposed location for brand review. - Agreement & Fee Payment
Review the franchise agreement and pay the franchise fee. - Store Setup
Complete interior fit-out, kitchen setup, equipment installation. - Training & Launch
Train your staff with franchisor guidance and open your outlet. - Operations & Marketing
Begin daily operations and local marketing to attract customers.
⚠️ Risks to Consider
- High competition from local stores and other ice-cream/dessert brands.
- Rent volatility in premium locations can squeeze margins.
- Seasonality may slow business in cooler months.
- Contract clauses may limit territory or impose conditions
❓ FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. What is the Sujata Mastani franchise cost in India?
A: Typically ₹6 lakh – ₹11 lakh including franchise fee, setup, and working capital.
Q2. How much space is needed?
A: Approximately 100–300 sq.ft depending on format and location.
Q3. Is prior experience needed?
A: Not mandatory, but food business experience helps.
Q4. What is the typical ROI period?
A: Most outlets aim for 6–12 months breakeven with strong sales.
🏁 Conclusion
The Sujata Mastani franchise is an enticing low-to-moderate investment opportunity in India’s growing quick-serve dessert market. With relatively compact store requirements, brand support, and modest setup costs, it suits first-time entrepreneurs and experienced investors alike. However, location, cost control, and customer service are key to long-term success. Always review the franchise agreement in detail and consider local market conditions before investing.