Are you a tea lover dreaming of running your own business? If yes, the Tea Time Franchise might be your perfect cup of chai. In a country where tea is not just a beverage but an emotion, investing in a well-established tea franchise brand like Tea Time can be a profitable and fulfilling venture.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the Tea Time Franchise cost, profit margins, ROI, franchise models, eligibility, and how to apply. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned investor, this blog will help you understand if the Tea Time business model suits your vision.
The Rise of the Tea Industry in India
India is one of the largest consumers and producers of tea globally. With an annual market valuation of over ₹20,000 crores and a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15%, the Indian tea industry is ripe for organized brand expansion.
As more people shift from roadside stalls to hygienic and branded tea cafés, the Tea Time Franchise has emerged as a trailblazer in this revolution. With a stronghold across 19 states and over 3,800 outlets, Tea Time is redefining how India drinks chai.
The Tea Time Story: From One Outlet to India’s Largest Tea Chain
Founded in 2016 by Uday Srinivas Tangella, Tea Time began with a single store in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh. What started as a modest vision—to offer premium tea at affordable prices—quickly transformed into India’s largest organized tea chain.
Within just seven years, Tea Time has expanded to thousands of outlets across India and Nepal. Their formula is simple yet powerful: offer high-quality tea and beverages, avoid artificial ingredients, and keep prices low enough to appeal to the masses.
Why Choose a Tea Time Franchise?
Still wondering why Tea Time stands out among so many tea brands? Here’s why investing in a Tea Time Franchise is a smart move:
1. Brand Recognition
With 3,800+ outlets and growing, Tea Time is already a household name in many regions. Customers trust the brand, ensuring you don’t have to start from scratch in building credibility.
2. Proven Business Model
Tea Time’s business model has been tested and optimized across diverse markets—from bustling metro cities to small towns. You gain from their experience and established operating systems.
3. Low Investment, High Returns
The cost to start a Tea Time unit franchise is relatively low (starting around ₹5–7 lakhs), but it offers high-profit potential. It’s a low-risk, high-reward opportunity.
4. Strong Support System
Tea Time offers complete franchisee support—from location scouting to marketing and operational guidance.
5. Wide Product Range
Though tea is the hero product, Tea Time also sells shakes, coolers, snacks, and seasonal items—keeping your outlet relevant year-round.
Tea Time Franchise Models Explained
Tea Time offers two franchise models: Unit Franchise and Master Franchise. Both come with different investment levels, responsibilities, and revenue opportunities.
1. Unit Franchise (Single Outlet)
This is the most popular and accessible model for new entrepreneurs. Ideal for individuals looking to start small.
✅ Key Features:
- Designed for single-location operations.
- Low capital requirement.
- You manage daily operations, sales, staff, and marketing.
✅ Support Provided:
- Branding, marketing, and training.
- Recipe standardization and equipment sourcing.
✅ Financials:
- Franchise Fee: ₹2–2.5 lakhs
- Total Setup Cost: ₹5–7 lakhs (including store interiors, branding, equipment, and inventory)
- Royalty: 3% of monthly revenue (capped at ₹9,000)
✅ Benefits:
- Fast ROI (6–12 months)
- Full operational control
- Local market customization
2. Master Franchise (City/District/State Rights)
A Master Franchise allows you to manage a larger territory and even sub-franchise to other unit owners.
✅ Key Features:
- Control multiple outlets or sub-franchises.
- Operate like a mini-franchisor.
- Support and train unit franchisees in your region.
✅ Financials:
- Master Franchise Fee: ₹15–25 lakhs
- Total Setup Cost: ₹25–50 lakhs
- Recurring Royalty: Share of 1.5% from each sub-franchise’s sales
✅ Benefits:
- Multiple income streams
- Scalable business
- Strong territorial hold
Tea Time Franchise Cost in India: Detailed Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at the Tea Time Franchise cost structure in 2025:
📌 Unit Franchise Cost
| Component | Amount (in ₹) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | ₹2,00,000 – ₹2,50,000 |
| Store Setup | ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,50,000 |
| Equipment | ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Initial Inventory | ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
| Misc. Expenses | ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
| Total Investment | ₹5,00,000 – ₹7,00,000 |
📌 Ongoing Monthly Costs
- Royalty: 3% (capped at ₹9,000)
- Marketing: 1% of monthly sales
- Rent: ₹20,000 – ₹40,000
- Utilities: ₹5,000 – ₹10,000
- Salaries: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000
- Stock Refill: ₹1 – ₹1.5 lakh
Is the Tea Time Franchise Profitable?
Absolutely. Let’s break it down.
🔹 Unit Franchise
- Monthly Sales: ₹3 – ₹6 lakhs
- Profit Margin: 20–25%
- Net Profit: ₹60,000 – ₹1.5 lakh/month
- ROI Period: 8–12 months
🔹 Master Franchise
- Revenue: ₹25 – ₹50 lakhs/month across all units
- Profit: 15–20%
- Income Streams:
- Direct outlet revenue
- Sub-franchise fees (₹1 – ₹1.25 lakh per new outlet)
- Royalty share
Tea Time Menu: What You’ll Sell
The Tea Time product lineup is crafted to attract all kinds of customers. Some items include:
🫖 Teas
- Masala Chai
- Lemon Tea
- Ginger Tea
- Herbal Tea
- Green Tea
🧋 Milk Beverages
- Premium Milkshakes
- Chocolate Milk
- Flavored Milk
🥤 Coolers & Smoothies
- Mint Cooler
- Mango Smoothie
- Lassi
🍴 Snacks
- Vada Pav
- Khari Biscuits
- Misal Pav
- Bonda
- Dhokla
🎯 Prices
- Tea: ₹10 – ₹25
- Snacks: ₹20 – ₹50
- Shakes: ₹99+
This wide product range helps increase average order value and repeat business.
Eligibility Criteria for Tea Time Franchise
To be eligible for the franchise, you should meet these minimum requirements:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age | 21+ |
| Education | Minimum PUC or equivalent |
| Financials | Ability to invest ₹5–7 lakhs |
| Skills | Basic business & customer service understanding |
| Commitment | Willingness to manage operations actively |
Space & Location Requirements
Choosing the right location is crucial.
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Space Needed | 150 – 200 sq. ft. |
| Ideal Locations | College areas, transport hubs, hospitals, busy markets, IT parks, commercial streets |
| Footfall | Minimum 100+ walk-ins per day |
High-visibility corners, double frontage stores, and footfall-heavy zones are proven to yield 30–50% higher sales.
How to Apply for a Tea Time Franchise in 2025
Here’s a step-by-step process to apply:
Step 1: Visit Official Website
Go to https://teatimegroup.com
Step 2: Click on ‘Franchise’
Navigate to the top menu and select the “Franchise” tab.
Step 3: Fill the Application Form
Provide your name, phone number, email, location preference, budget, and past experience.
Step 4: Submit the Form
Ensure all details are accurate to avoid application rejection.
Step 5: Wait for the Response
If shortlisted, the franchise team will contact you for further discussions.
Step 6: Sign Agreement & Onboarding
Once approved, sign the franchise agreement, pay the fees, and undergo training.
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Documents Required
Keep the following documents ready:
- Aadhar & PAN Card (ID proof)
- Address Proof (Utility bill/passport)
- Bank Statements (6–12 months)
- Franchise Application & Agreement
- Business Plan
- Shop License
- FSSAI License
- GST Certificate
Monthly Earning Potential of a Tea Time Franchise
| Category | Estimate (₹) |
|---|---|
| Daily Sales | ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Monthly Revenue | ₹1.5 – ₹3 lakh |
| Net Profit | ₹50,000 – ₹1.2 lakh |
| ROI Period | 6–12 months |
These figures depend on location, operations, and customer service quality.
Tips to Succeed as a Tea Time Franchise Owner
- Choose a prime location near colleges or markets.
- Focus on service speed — customers love quick chai!
- Maintain hygiene and consistency — repeat customers are key.
- Use local marketing — social media, offline banners, WhatsApp marketing.
- Keep costs in check — monitor inventory and staffing costs.
Pros and Cons of Tea Time Franchise
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low investment | Regional competition |
| Strong brand recall | Dependency on brand reputation |
| Fast ROI | Standardized product restrictions |
| High-profit margins | Needs active daily management |
| Full support from brand | Limited customization scope |
Looking for More Than Tea? Explore Hot Dog Harbour & Sugoi Ramen Franchise Opportunities
While the Tea Time franchise is a fantastic entry into the food and beverage (F&B) industry, many entrepreneurs often look to diversify their portfolio or explore different taste segments that are fast gaining popularity in India. Two such exciting and high-growth franchise options are:
Hot Dog Harbour: India’s Favorite Fusion Hotdog Brand
Hot Dog Harbour is India’s largest and fastest-growing hotdog QSR chain, known for blending global flavors with Indian cravings. With a presence in Mumbai and Pune, it has already served over 83,000+ happy customers this year.
Why Choose Hot Dog Harbour Franchise?
- Unique Concept: It’s not your regular fast food joint — it offers spicy, tangy, cheesy, and Korean-style hotdogs that click with Gen Z.
- High Profit Margins: Products like Captain’s Classic Dog and Spicy Seoul Dog offer great markup.
- Low Setup Cost: Start your outlet with just ₹2.5–4 lakhs.
- High Footfall Locations: Presence in colleges, food courts, and tech parks.
- Trending Format: Combines street food vibes with QSR systems and delivery-focused cloud kitchens.
Popular Products:
- Korean Fried Chicken Hotdog
- Buffalo Bay Dog
- Peri Peri Paneer Dog
- Classic Cheese & BBQ Sausage Dog
You can start with either a takeaway outlet or a delivery cloud kitchen. Full franchise support, branding kit, and training are provided.
Sugoi Ramen: India’s First Authentic Japanese Ramen Brand
Sugoi Ramen brings the umami magic of Japan to Indian diners with its authentic, handmade ramen noodles and rich broths. It has quickly expanded across Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad, building a loyal customer base and creating a niche in the premium QSR space.
Why Sugoi Ramen is a Premium Franchise Opportunity:
- First-Mover Advantage: Be a part of India’s original ramen revolution.
- High Repeat Orders: Ramen is a comfort food, perfect for Swiggy/Zomato delivery with high average order values (₹300+).
- Product Range: Veg, Chicken, Prawns, Tofu, and even Vegan options.
- Strong Brand Identity: Already established as the go-to ramen name in urban India.
- Cloud Kitchen Friendly: Scalable, minimal staff model ideal for metro cities and college towns.
Top-Selling Bowls:
- Spicy Chicken Ramen
- Teriyaki Paneer Ramen
- Vegan Miso Broth Ramen
- Chicken Shoyu Ramen
- Exotic Mushroom Ramen
With a franchise cost starting at ₹3.5–6 lakhs, Sugoi Ramen is perfect for entrepreneurs looking for a high-end yet operationally lean food business.
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Conclusion: Is Tea Time Franchise Worth It?
If you’re passionate about starting a business and love the aroma of a freshly brewed cup of tea, the Tea Time Franchise is an opportunity worth exploring. With low capital, fast ROI, national brand support, and strong customer loyalty, it’s a smart choice for anyone entering the F&B sector.
Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or an experienced investor looking to expand, Tea Time gives you a profitable, scalable, and sustainable business model that works across India’s diverse markets.
FAQs – Tea Time Franchise in India
Q1. What is the Tea Time Franchise cost in India?
A unit franchise typically costs between ₹5–7 lakhs, while a master franchise may require ₹25–50 lakhs.
Q2. How much profit can I earn monthly?
Unit franchises earn between ₹60,000 to ₹1.5 lakhs per month depending on location and sales.
Q3. What’s the ROI timeline?
Most franchisees recover their investment within 6 to 12 months.
Q4. Is experience required?
No. Tea Time provides training and support. However, business experience is a plus.
Q5. Can I open a franchise in any city?
Yes, as long as your desired area is available and meets brand standards.
