NIC Ice Cream Franchise Cost in India: Model, ROI, Eligibility Criteria & Steps to Apply

India’s ice cream industry has seen massive growth in recent years, thanks to rising disposable income, urban lifestyle changes, and increasing preference for premium quality products. One brand that has made a strong impact in the Indian dessert market is NIC Ice Cream. Known for its 100% natural, preservative-free ice creams made with real fruits, dry fruits, and natural ingredients, NIC has built a loyal customer base across India.

With the growing demand for healthier, premium desserts, investing in a NIC Ice Cream franchise in India has become a promising opportunity. In this article, we will cover the NIC Ice Cream franchise cost, business models, ROI, eligibility criteria, and steps to apply.

✅ NIC Ice Cream Franchise Models in India

NIC offers flexible franchise models to suit various budgets and locations. The models are designed to cater to small entrepreneurs as well as investors looking for larger outlets.

1. Kiosk / Parlour Model

• Small setup in malls, food courts, or high-footfall areas.
• Requires around 150–200 sq. ft. space.
• Focuses on takeaway and quick service.
• Ideal for low to medium investment.

2. Standalone Store Model

• A full-fledged ice cream parlour with seating.
• Requires 250–400 sq. ft. space at a prime location.
• Offers complete range of NIC ice creams and better customer experience.
• Suitable for entrepreneurs aiming for higher sales.

3. Cloud Kitchen / Delivery Model

• Focuses entirely on online orders and delivery through Swiggy, Zomato, etc.
• Requires a small kitchen space (100–150 sq. ft.).
• Lower setup cost compared to physical outlets.
• Ideal for tier-1 and tier-2 cities with strong online demand.

💰 NIC Ice Cream Franchise Cost in India

The investment required for a NIC franchise depends on the model chosen:

• Franchise Fee: ₹3 – ₹5 lakh (one-time).
• Setup & Interiors: ₹5 – ₹12 lakh (based on size).
• Equipment (Freezers, POS System, etc.): ₹2 – ₹5 lakh.
• Initial Stock (Ice Cream & Packaging): ₹50,000 – ₹1.5 lakh.
• Working Capital: ₹1 – ₹3 lakh.

👉 Total Investment Estimate:

• Kiosk / Parlour Model: ₹10 – ₹15 lakh
• Standalone Store: ₹15 – ₹20 lakh
• Cloud Kitchen Model: ₹8 – ₹12 lakh

This makes NIC a comparatively affordable franchise option when compared with premium brands like Baskin Robbins or Häagen-Dazs, which often require ₹25–40 lakh investment.

📈 ROI (Return on Investment) & Profit Potential

NIC Ice Cream is one of the fastest-growing ice cream brands in India, with strong demand in both metro and tier-2 cities. Due to its premium yet affordable pricing strategy, franchise partners enjoy good profit margins.

• Gross Margin: 40% – 50%
• Breakeven Period: 12 – 18 months (depending on location & sales).
• Average Monthly Revenue:
  • Kiosk / Parlour: ₹2 – ₹4 lakh
  • Standalone Store: ₹4 – ₹7 lakh
  • Cloud Kitchen: ₹1.5 – ₹3 lakh

For example, a parlour generating ₹3.5 lakh in monthly sales with 45% margin can earn ₹1.5 lakh profit per month. With consistent sales, the entire investment can be recovered in 1 to 1.5 years.

📝 Eligibility Criteria for NIC Ice Cream Franchise

Before applying, you must meet some basic requirements set by the company:

1. Age & Qualification
   • Minimum age: 21 years.
   • Basic education preferred, though not compulsory.
2. Business Experience
   • Food & beverage industry experience is an added advantage.
   • Even first-time entrepreneurs can apply.
3. Space Requirement
   • Kiosk: 150–200 sq. ft.
   • Standalone Store: 250–400 sq. ft.
   • Cloud Kitchen: 100–150 sq. ft.
4. Financial Capacity
   • Ability to invest ₹8 – ₹20 lakh depending on model.
   • Working capital to sustain operations for first 3–6 months.
5. Licenses & Registrations
   • FSSAI License (mandatory for all food businesses).
   • GST Registration.
   • Shop & Establishment License (from local municipal authority).
   • Trade License (if applicable).

🛠️ Support & Benefits from NIC Ice Cream

As a franchise partner, you receive complete support from NIC:

• Brand Value: Association with a premium, trusted, and growing ice cream brand.
• Outlet Setup Support: Guidance in design, interiors, and equipment setup.
• Marketing Assistance: Pan-India marketing campaigns plus local promotion support.
• Supply Chain Support: Regular supply of ice creams and packaging materials.
• Training Program: Staff training on product handling, hygiene, and customer service.
• Technology Support: POS systems, billing, and inventory management.

🚀 Steps to Apply for NIC Ice Cream Franchise in India

Getting a NIC franchise is simple if you follow these steps:

Step 1: Research & Choose Model

Decide whether you want a kiosk, store, or cloud kitchen depending on your investment capacity and location.

Step 2: Application Form Submission

Visit the official NIC Ice Cream website (www.nicecream.in) and go to the Franchise Enquiry section. Fill in details such as name, city, investment budget, and contact information.

Step 3: Discussion with NIC Team

After reviewing your application, NIC’s franchise development team will contact you to discuss the business model, terms, and conditions.

Step 4: Site & Document Verification

Submit personal (PAN, Aadhaar) and business documents. NIC will also check your proposed store location.

Step 5: Agreement & Payment

Sign the franchise agreement and pay the franchise fee along with initial investment.

Step 6: Store Setup & Training

NIC will assist with store interiors, equipment, and staff training.

Step 7: Launch & Operations

After setup, you can officially launch your NIC Ice Cream franchise and start operations.

⚖️ Conclusion

The NIC Ice Cream franchise in India is an exciting opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs. With growing demand for natural, preservative-free, premium ice creams, NIC has positioned itself as a strong player in the Indian market.

• Investment Range: ₹8 – ₹20 lakh
• Profit Margin: 40–50%
• ROI: 12–18 months

Whether you choose a kiosk, store, or cloud kitchen, NIC offers high earning potential, strong brand backing, and excellent support. If you are looking for a low-risk, high-return food business, NIC Ice Cream franchise could be the perfect choice.