Apollo Pharmacy Franchise Cost in India: Model, ROI, Eligibility & Apply Guide

Apollo Pharmacy, a wing of Apollo Hospitals, began in 1987 and today boasts over 5,000 stores across India. It’s a household name renowned for trust, extensive reach, and quality products. For entrepreneurs considering entry into healthcare retail, an Apollo Pharmacy franchise offers a compelling blend of brand strength, structured support, and steady profitability.

💸 Total Investment Breakdown

The investment in an Apollo Pharmacy franchise depends on the location, store size (typically 200–500 sq ft), and format. Here’s a comprehensive cost breakdown:

• Some estimates go as low as ₹15–20 Lakh for very small kiosks, but more realistic setups align closer to ₹30–60 Lakh.

🔁 Franchise Model & Fee Structure

Apollo Pharmacy offers a conventional franchise model under Apollo HealthCo:

• Franchise Fee (one-time): ₹5–10 Lakh .
• Security Deposit: Around ₹2 Lakh.
• Royalties: Ongoing fee of 5–7% of monthly revenue.
• Marketing Contribution: Often <2% used for brand and local promotions.

Space Requirements: Optimal outlets require 200–500 sq ft in high-footfall areas like hospital premises, malls, clinics, and residential hubs .

📈 Expected Revenue & ROI

Apollo pharmacies enjoy steady demand due to essential healthcare needs.

• Monthly Revenue: ₹5–30 Lakh—₹10–20 Lakh is typical in good locations.
• Gross Profit Margin: 15–20% on prescription meds; up to 25–30% on OTC and wellness products.
• Net Profit Margin: Around 10–15% of revenue—higher for high-footfall outlets, sometimes up to 20% .
• Net Monthly Profit: ₹1–4 Lakh, depending on scale and efficiency.

Payback Period: Typically 18–36 months; in prime locations, payback may occur within 12–24 months .

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Who can apply?

1. Financial Capacity: Minimum ₹30–60 Lakh investment readiness .
2. Space Availability: 200–500 sq ft with good visibility; higher space helps expand product offerings.
3. Pharmacist License: Legally, a licensed pharmacist must be employed or on the franchise’s payroll.
4. Business Acumen: Prior retail or healthcare experience is beneficial but not mandatory .
5. Documentation: Includes drug license, GST, shop establishment, lease/rental agreement, bank statements, PAN, etc. .

🛠️ Support & Setup Process

Apollo provides robust franchisee support:

• Training: Covers pharmacy operations, stock management, billing software, and customer service.
• Site Assistance: Guidance on site selection, layout design, and interior fit-out.
• Supply Chain Access: Central supply ensures consistent stock and pricing.
• Marketing Support: Apollo-led campaigns plus templates for local promotions.

Setup Timeline: From approval to launch typically 45–90 days, depending on location scoring and licenses.

🚀 Step-by-Step: How to Apply

1. Enquiry/Application: Fill out the franchise form on the official Apollo Pharmacy (Apollo HealthCo) website.
2. Evaluation: Apollo reviews your background, finances, and proposed location.
3. Site Approval: Apollo conducts a site visit and approves compliant spaces.
4. Agreement & Payment: Sign a franchise agreement (usually five years) and pay fees + deposit.
5. Setup Activities: Interiors, fit-out, billing systems, and staffing are put in place.
6. Licenses & Training: Secure drug license, GST before opening; attend training sessions.
7. Launch: Open your outlet, start regular operations with brand-backed marketing.
8. Ongoing Support: Regular audits, refresher training, inventory restocks, and marketing coordination.

📊 Key Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Brand Equity: Apollo is India’s largest, most trusted pharmacy chain.
• Reliable Supply Chain: Centralized inventory, quality control, and stable procurement.
• Diversified Revenue: Offers medicines, OTC, diagnostics, and health services.
• Essentials-Based Resilience: Medication demand stays strong regardless of economic cycles .
• Professional Support: Training, operations proposals, licensing assistance, and marketing.

Cons:

• High Capital Requirement: ₹30–60 Lakh may be a barrier for some.
• Royalties: Ongoing 5–7% reduces overall margin.
• Pharmacist Required: Must hire a qualified pharmacist—adds salary overhead.
• Location Dependent: Sales heavily tied to footfall in chosen locations.

📈 Quick ROI Table

✅ Final Verdict

Franchising with Apollo Pharmacy offers a blend of strong brand trust, comprehensive support, and enduring demand in the healthcare retail space. Entrepreneurs with ₹30–60 Lakh ready, a pharmacist onboard, and a promising location can build a profitable and sustainable business—expect a monthly profit of ₹1–4 Lakh and break-even in 1–3 years.

The investment is significant, and margins moderate, but Apollo’s brand strength, infrastructure, and wide-ranging services make it a competitive choice for the right candidate.

If you’re interested in launching an Apollo outlet in Delhi/NCR, analyzing site options, creating a financial forecast, or preparing application documents, I’m here to help with franchising strategies tailored to your goals.

Shashi Kant

Shashi Kant is the Founder and Editor of BusinessScroller.com, a leading platform for business insights, finance trends, and industry analysis. With a passion for journalism and expertise in business reporting, he curates well-researched content on market strategies, startups, and corporate success stories. His vision is to provide valuable information that empowers entrepreneurs and professionals. Under his leadership, BusinessScroller.com has grown into a trusted source for in-depth articles, customer care guides, and financial expertise.