Meridian Ice Cream Franchise Cost in India: Models, ROI, Eligibility & How to Apply

Meridian Ice Cream, founded in 1999 and headquartered in Pune, has grown into a well-recognized premium ice-cream brand across Maharashtra and neighboring states. Renowned for its focus on real dairy ingredients, natural flavors, and artisanal sundaes, Meridian presents a compelling franchise opportunity in India’s fast-growing ice-cream segment.

Franchise Models & Investment Range

Meridian offers a single-unit franchise model with flexible investment based on outlet size and location:

Cost Component	Estimated Range	Notes
Franchise Fee	₹3–5 Lakh	One-time fee
Setup/Equipment Costs	₹5–10 Lakh	Freezers, interiors, POS
Initial Inventory & Mktg	₹2–4 Lakh	Ingredients, opening promotions
Working Capital	₹3 Lakh	Operating expenses for initial months
Total Investment	₹10–25 Lakh	Varies with location/size

• TradesWorld estimates a ₹15 Lakh package covering fees, setup, inventory, working capital, and miscellaneous costs.
• Marketing Hack4u and EarnYatra place the investment range between ₹10–25 Lakh, aligning with small-kiosk to full-store models.

Revenue & Earnings Model

Meridian typically charges low or no ongoing royalty, making it financially attractive:

• Royalty starts around 3% post 3 years of operations.
• Many sources indicate no royalty for initial years, helping franchisees stabilize financially.
• Setup fees also usually include training, branding, and support.

Projected ROI & Profitability

Meridian franchises promise attractive returns:

• Gross profit margins of 30–45% have been reported.
• Given average monthly sales of ₹5–6 Lakh, profitability is high:
• ₹5 Lakh × 12 = ₹60 Lakh annual revenue.
• At a 40% margin: ₹24 Lakh gross profit.
• After expenses (rent, salaries, utilities), net profit ~₹10–15 Lakh/year, yielding ROI within 12–18 months.
• Marketing Hack4u lists ROI recovery in 6–12 months, depending on outlet performance .
• Startup Authority even estimates margins of 30–40%, very lucrative in India’s ice-cream space.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a Meridian franchise, applicants must typically:

• Be at least 21–22 years old, with basic educated background (e.g. PUC).
• Have initial investment capital ₹10–25 Lakh available.
• Secure leased/shop space ranging from 100 to 300 sq ft, preferably in high foot‐traffic areas.
• Commit to food-business compliance, including FSSAI licensing, safety, and hygiene standards.
• Be entrepreneurially inclined, with aptitude to manage inventory, staff, and customer experience.
• Have a clean legal background, without criminal history .

Brand Support & Operational Assistance

Meridian provides end-to-end franchisee support:

• Site selection guidance to identify promising locations.
• Setup support including store layout, modular furniture, signage, and freezer installations.
• Staff training in hygiene, scooping techniques, customer service, and wastage control.
• SOPs and software: Inventory management systems and operational protocols.
• Marketing materials for local promotions, seasonal offerings, and digital campaigns.
• Ongoing support: Operational audits, refresher training, and supply chain oversight.

Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Make Initial Contact
Reach out via Meridian’s website form or email for franchise inquiries.

Share Basic Info
Provide personal/business background, investment capability, and preferred outlet location/sq.ft.

Preliminary Screening
Franchisor evaluates background, finances, and outlet viability. May include interview or site visit.

Site Finalization
Meridian helps shortlist and finalize location based on footfall, visibility, and demographics.

Sign Franchise Agreement
Typically a 3–5 year term, including fee structure and renewal clauses.

Training & Setup
Franchisee and staff undergo initial training. Site is fitted and branded under guidance.

Trial Run / Soft Launch
A trial period to perfect operations, workflow, and product quality.

Grand Opening
Larger launch campaign as per marketing plan with brand support.

Ongoing Operations
Support continues through supply chain, marketing promotions, and performance reviews.

How Meridian Stands vs Other Ice‑Cream Franchises

Brand	Investment Range	Franchise Fee	Royalty	GPM/Net Profit
Meridian	₹10–25 Lakh	₹3–5 Lakh	~3% after 3 yrs	30–45% gross, net ~15–25%
Amul	₹2–6 Lakh	NIL	~10–12%	~15–25% gross
Baskin Robbins	₹11–24 Lakh	₹4–7 Lakh	5–8%	~15–22% gross
Havmor	₹15–35 Lakh	₹3–5 Lakh	~4–6%	~18–25% gross

Meridian scores high on lower royalty, strong margins, and artisanal positioning—ideal for aspirants seeking premium Indian ice-cream business without excessive overheads.

Key Considerations Before Investing

• Location is crucial: 100–300 sq ft stores near schools, malls, food courts, or youth hangouts tend to perform best.
• Seasonality impact: While summers bring peak demand, off-season sales can be boosted via sundaes, shakes, delivery tie-ups, and promotions.
• Inventory management: Dairy business requires tight control on cold chain — proper storage and first-in-first-out usage is essential.
• Brand consistency: Maintaining flavor standards and customer experience builds loyalty and word-of-mouth.
• Diversification: Offering combos, seasonal specials, and desserts helps offset monsoon/downturns.

Is Meridian a Smart Franchise Choice?

✅ Entry-level investment: ₹10–25 L is modest compared to bigger brands.
✅ Quick ROI: Many franchisees recover investment in 12–18 months.
✅ Strong margins: 30–45% gross profits, with net of ~15–25%.
✅ Low royalties: Minimal ongoing burden on profitability.
✅ Premium Indian brand: Real dairy ingredients and regional flavors appeal strongly to consumers.

This makes Meridian ideal for first-time F&B investors, small-business owners, and regional entrepreneurs seeking a scalable, profitable dessert business.

🚀 Ready to Start? Here’s a Quick Checklist

• Ensure funding availability (₹10–25 L including working capital).
• Scout prime locations (100–300 sq ft, high footfall).
• Contact Meridian via their franchise page or email.
• Prepare documents: ID, PAN, bank statements, lease details.
• Engage in site visits and application screening.
• Sign agreement, pay fees, and start the setup.
• Attend training, stock inventory, and plan launch activities.
• Launch with brand and local marketing support.
• Track KPIs monthly, adjust inventory, and maintain quality control.

Final Thoughts

Meridian Ice Cream provides a compelling franchise option that blends affordable investment, high-margin returns, and brand authenticity. With minimal royalty, solid franchisor backing, and a clear path to ROI, this is a smart choice for entrepreneurs in India’s dessert and F&B landscape.

If you’d like help with a location feasibility study, ROI modeling for Delhi, or a competitive audit of ice-cream brands, I’d be delighted to assist you further!