Food delivery platform Zomato has quietly increased its platform fee to ₹12 per order, up from ₹10 earlier, as the company looks to squeeze more profitability from the surge in festive-season demand. Rival Swiggy has matched the move with its own ₹2 hike, now charging ₹14 per order.
The platform fee, first rolled out at just ₹2 in April 2023, has steadily climbed in line with Zomato’s rising scale. At current order volumes of 2.3–2.5 million a day, the ₹12 fee is expected to generate close to ₹3 crore in daily revenue. That translates to nearly ₹90 crore in a single month, or up to ₹45 crore more per quarter than what the company would have earned at the old ₹10 fee.
While the increase may feel negligible for individual customers, the cumulative impact is material for Zomato, especially as it battles margin pressures from its quick commerce arm Blinkit. The company recently reported a sharp 90% year-on-year fall in profit after tax to ₹25 crore in Q1 FY26, compared with ₹253 crore in the same period last year. Revenues, however, jumped 70% to ₹7,167 crore.
Alongside the fee hike, Zomato has been experimenting with other monetisation levers. It has piloted weather-linked surcharges and is currently testing a ₹50 “VIP Mode” in select cities, promising faster deliveries, priority riders and a concierge-style service. A “long-distance fee” payable by restaurants for orders over four kilometres has also been introduced, drawing pushback from smaller eateries.
Industry watchers say such incremental charges, once tested, tend to stick if volumes remain unaffected. For Zomato and Swiggy, the festival quarter will be a litmus test on how far India’s food delivery consumers are willing to pay for speed and convenience.
Tuco Kids, the Bengaluru-based kids’ personal care startup catering to children between 3 and 13 years, has secured $4 million in a Series A funding round led by RTP Global. Existing backers Fireside Ventures, Whiteboard Capital and MG Investments also participated.
Launched in 2023 by former Unilever and Ola executive Aishvarya Murali, the brand has quickly carved out space in the under-served children’s personal care segment. Tuco Kids’ portfolio spans soaps, lotions, creams, face care, sunscreens, deodorants, mosquito repellents, kids’ makeup, kajals and curated gift packs. The company says all packaging is made from reclaimed landfill and ocean plastic, reinforcing its sustainability pitch.
The new capital will be used to widen product innovation, strengthen online and offline presence, and increase consumer reach. Tuco currently sells through its own direct-to-consumer platform as well as marketplaces including Amazon, Flipkart, Nykaa, Myntra, FirstCry, Blinkit, Zepto and Instamart.
According to the founders, Tuco has grown 10-fold since inception and claims to have served more than two lakh parents across India. Earlier this year, the company brought on board Chanakya Gupta, former senior executive at Curefit and Flipkart, as co-founder to accelerate scale-up efforts.
“Kids deserve complete transparency about what touches their skin. Our products are built around that promise,” said Murali and Gupta in a joint statement, adding that the funding will help extend this mission to more families nationwide.
Investors remain bullish on the category. “Tuco is unlocking a high-potential market through sharp innovation and consumer insight,” said Pavitra Gupta, Director at RTP Global. Fireside Ventures’ Partner Adarsh Menon called Tuco one of the earliest wins from its Early Venture program and praised the team’s ability to build clarity in a category long overlooked by large FMCG players.
Markets regulator Sebi has cleared the public listing of Imagine Marketing Ltd, the parent company behind the boAt brand, paving the way for one of India’s most awaited consumer electronics IPOs this year.
The approval follows Imagine Marketing’s confidential filing in April and sets the stage for a market debut that could value the Warburg Pincus-backed company at around ₹13,000 crore, according to people aware of the matter. This marks the firm’s second attempt at going public after it shelved a ₹2,000-crore IPO plan in 2022. That earlier draft had proposed a ₹900-crore fresh issue and a ₹1,100-crore offer for sale.
Founded in 2013 by Aman Gupta and Sameer Mehta, Imagine Marketing has built a diversified product suite spanning headphones, speakers, smartwatches, grooming devices and mobile accessories under the boAt label. The company has carved a strong position in the affordable wearables and audio accessories market, competing with global majors such as Apple, Samsung and local challenger Noise.
Sebi’s green light comes at a time when IPO activity in India remains buoyant. Alongside Imagine Marketing, 12 other companies have received approval for share sales. The list includes Urban Company, renewable energy player Juniper Green Energy, Allchem Lifescience, Pace Digitek, Omnitech Engineering, KSH International, Ravi Infrabuild Projects, Mouri Tech, Priority Jewels, Corona Remedies, Om Freight Forwarders and Jain Resource Recycling.
For investors, boAt’s proposed listing is being closely tracked as a proxy to India’s expanding consumer electronics story. With demand for affordable wearables surging, the company is expected to use public market funds to strengthen distribution, scale product innovation and sharpen its competitive edge in a crowded sector.
With regulatory clearance secured, Imagine Marketing now joins the growing pipeline of consumer-facing businesses ready to test investor appetite in India’s primary markets.
Flipkart has picked up a majority stake in Pinkvilla India, the celebrity and lifestyle content platform that has built a loyal following among Gen Z audiences. The acquisition is part of the Walmart-owned e-commerce giant’s plan to deepen its connect with younger consumers by expanding beyond shopping into entertainment-led engagement.
The deal, confirmed on Monday, gives Flipkart direct access to Pinkvilla’s fast-growing digital audience, which is driven by film gossip, fashion, beauty, and celebrity culture. For Flipkart, which already counts over 500 million registered users, the move signals a sharper focus on content-led commerce at a time when rivals like Amazon and Reliance are also building media-first ecosystems to lock in customer attention.
“Entertainment has a huge influence on consumption choices, especially for Gen Z. This acquisition is a critical step in our mission to strengthen engagement with this demographic,” said Ravi Iyer, Senior Vice President, Corporate at Flipkart.
Founded in 2007 by Nandini Shenoy, Pinkvilla began as a Bollywood-focused portal and has since expanded into multiple verticals including fashion, beauty, television, Korean entertainment, and lifestyle. With millions of monthly visitors across its website and social channels, the platform has become a go-to destination for entertainment-driven content consumption.
Shenoy said the partnership with Flipkart will accelerate Pinkvilla’s growth plans and allow it to scale operations more aggressively. “This is an opportunity to broaden our reach and deepen our impact in a rapidly evolving digital ecosystem,” she said.
The deal is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to be completed soon. Neither company disclosed financial terms.
The acquisition underscores Flipkart’s broader shift to build consumer stickiness through media, content, and entertainment — areas that increasingly influence shopping behavior among India’s young internet users.
BigBasket, the online grocer backed by Tata Group, is preparing for a leadership change as cofounder and chief executive Hari Menon looks to step back from daily operations. According to people aware of the matter, Menon has been drawing up a succession plan over the past few months and may take on a mentor’s role once a new chief executive is appointed.
The move comes as Tata Sons sharpens BigBasket’s playbook in quick commerce, a segment where rivals Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart and Zepto have seized ground. Menon, who launched BigBasket in 2011 alongside Vipul Parekh, VS Sudhakar, Abhinay Choudhari and VS Ramesh, has steered the company for over a decade, including its acquisition by Tata Digital in 2021. Choudhari is the only founder to exit following the deal.
Tata Digital, a wholly owned unit of Tata Sons, had acquired 64.3% of BigBasket’s wholesale business Supermarket Grocery Supplies for $200 million three years ago, valuing the company at $3.2 billion. Since then, the grocer has been repositioning itself through BB Now, its 10-minute delivery service, and a broader app overhaul designed to move beyond grocery into multiple categories.
The leadership change is also being closely watched by investors as BigBasket looks to raise fresh capital with Citi and Moelis advising Tata Sons on the process. The grocer’s performance has come under pressure. Tata Sons’ latest annual report shows revenue at its consumer-facing arm Innovative Retail Concepts declined 3% to Rs 7,673 crore in FY25, while its wholesale unit fell 7% to Rs 2,227 crore. Losses widened to Rs 1,851 crore from Rs 1,267 crore a year earlier.
The transition at BigBasket coincides with a broader shake-up at Tata Digital, which recently brought in Sajith Sivanandan, former Jio executive, as its new chief executive to accelerate execution across digital platforms.
India is a country that loves its sweets, and ice cream has become one of the most popular desserts across all age groups. From the bustling lanes of Mumbai to the serene streets of Kerala, you’ll find people enjoying kulfi, sundaes, soft serves, and gelato. With the ice cream industry in India projected to grow steadily over the coming years, opening an ice cream parlour is not just a dream—it can be a highly profitable venture.
If you’re wondering how to open an ice cream parlour in India, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Let’s dive into 8 practical tips that will help you build and run a successful ice cream business.
Why Start an Ice Cream Parlour in India?
Before we get into the tips, let’s look at why this is such a lucrative business idea:
Huge market size: The Indian ice cream market is expected to surpass ₹30,000 crore by 2030.
Growing demand: Ice cream is no longer seasonal; customers enjoy it year-round.
Diverse consumer base: Kids, teenagers, families, and even seniors love ice cream.
High profit margins: Ice cream has a markup of 60–70%, making it one of the most profitable food items.
Room for innovation: From vegan to exotic flavors, there’s endless scope to differentiate your parlour.
8 Tips to Open a Successful Ice Cream Parlour in India
1. Research the Indian Ice Cream Market
Market research is the foundation of your business. Ask yourself:
What are people in your target area eating—traditional kulfi, sundaes, or artisanal gelato?
Who are your competitors, and what are their prices and offerings?
What’s missing in the market? (Sugar-free, regional flavors, unique presentations).
💡 Pro Tip: Visit popular parlours in your city and study customer preferences.
2. Choose the Right Location
Your location can make or break your business. Ice cream is an impulse purchase, so foot traffic is critical. The best locations include:
Near schools, colleges, and coaching centers.
Inside or around shopping malls and markets.
Tourist destinations and busy commercial streets.
High-footfall residential neighborhoods.
Make sure the location has visibility, easy parking, and enough space for storage and seating.
3. Decide on the Business Model
There are multiple ways to run an ice cream parlour in India:
Independent Parlour: Gives you complete control over menu, branding, and pricing.
Franchise Model: Join an established brand like Naturals, Baskin Robbins, or Amul. While it costs more, you benefit from brand recognition and support.
Kiosk/Cart: A budget-friendly option with investments as low as ₹2–5 lakhs. Perfect for testing the market.
Mobile Food Truck: Allows flexibility and mobility. You can serve ice cream at events, fairs, and festivals.
4. Build a Unique & Irresistible Menu
Your menu should appeal to both traditional and modern tastes. Start with the classics, but add a unique twist.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep introducing limited-edition flavors to keep customers coming back.
5. Arrange Licenses and Legal Requirements
To operate legally in India, you’ll need to obtain the following licenses:
FSSAI License: Mandatory for all food businesses.
GST Registration: For billing and taxation.
Shop and Establishment Act License: Required for retail shops.
Local Health Permits: Ensures compliance with hygiene standards.
Make sure your parlour follows hygiene and food safety guidelines, as health inspections are common.
6. Invest in Equipment & Suppliers
Setting up an ice cream parlour requires the right equipment:
Freezers and cold storage.
Display counters and dipping cabinets.
Soft-serve or gelato machines.
Blenders, topping stations, and waffle makers.
POS system for billing and order management.
Partner with reliable dairy suppliers and wholesalers for cones, cups, toppings, and packaging.
7. Focus on Marketing & Branding
A successful parlour is more than just ice cream—it’s about creating a brand experience.
📢 Marketing Tips for Ice Cream Parlours in India:
Choose a catchy name and logo.
Use Instagram Reels, TikTok, and Facebook to promote new flavors.
Partner with food bloggers and influencers.
Offer combo deals and loyalty programs.
List your parlour on Swiggy and Zomato for delivery.
Organize events like “Buy One Get One” Wednesdays or seasonal festivals.
💡 Pro Tip: Create an Instagram-worthy interior. Customers will promote your parlour for free through selfies and check-ins.
8. Manage Costs and Maximize Profits
Even though ice cream has high margins, controlling costs is crucial.
Track ingredient usage to reduce wastage.
Train staff on portion control.
Optimize staff schedules to avoid overstaffing during off-peak hours.
Use seasonal promotions to boost off-season sales.
Offer upsells like waffle cones, extra toppings, and take-home tubs.
Cost of Opening an Ice Cream Parlour in India
The cost depends on your business model:
Small Kiosk/Cart: ₹2 – 5 lakhs
Standard Parlour: ₹10 – 20 lakhs
Franchise Parlour: ₹15 – 30 lakhs (depending on brand)
Food Truck: ₹8 – 15 lakhs
Is an Ice Cream Parlour Profitable in India?
Yes ✅. A well-run ice cream parlour can achieve 30–40% profit margins. The key is:
High footfall location.
Quality ingredients.
Smart pricing.
Seasonal promotions.
With rising demand and evolving tastes, the ice cream parlour business in India is here to stay.
FAQs on Starting an Ice Cream Parlour in India
1. How much profit can an ice cream parlour make?
Profits vary, but most parlours earn margins of 30–40%, especially during summer.
2. Which is better: franchise or independent parlour?
Franchises cost more but offer branding and support. Independent shops provide freedom and creativity.
3. What are the challenges of running an ice cream parlour in India?
Seasonal demand fluctuations.
High electricity costs for freezers.
Competition from big brands and local shops.
4. Can I run an ice cream parlour year-round?
Yes! Adding hot desserts, coffee, or snacks can help during winter months.
Final Thoughts
Starting an ice cream parlour in India is a rewarding venture with huge growth potential. By choosing the right location, building a unique menu, and marketing creatively, you can establish a parlour that attracts loyal customers and generates strong profits.
If you follow these 8 tips, you’ll be well on your way to running a successful and profitable ice cream business in India. 🍨
India’s fashion retailers are feeling the pinch of a supply disruption that has followed the government’s ban on importing readymade garments from Bangladesh through land routes. The directive, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade on May 17, now allows shipments only through Kolkata and Nhava Sheva ports, stretching delivery timelines by two to three weeks.
The impact is most evident in the affordable fashion category, with chains such as Zudio, Lifestyle, Reliance Retail’s fashion arms, and international players including H&M and Marks & Spencer reporting thinner shelves. The squeeze has come at a time when retailers are simultaneously clearing end-of-season sales and pushing fresh collections ahead of the festive season.
“Some categories which we source from Bangladesh have been delayed, and this requires tighter planning to ensure our stores stay stocked,” said Devarajan Iyer, chief executive of Lifestyle International, which runs India’s largest departmental store chain.
Bangladesh is the world’s second-largest garment exporter after China and a key supplier for India’s mass-market segment, particularly for products priced below ₹1,000. Imports of readymade garments from the country dropped 25% year-on-year in recent months, according to Sanjay Jain, chairman of the textile expert panel at the Indian Chamber of Commerce. India imported $254.44 million worth of apparel from Bangladesh between January and June this year, marginally higher than $245.84 million in the same period of 2024, ITC and CITI data shows.
While larger retailers are moving some sourcing to domestic manufacturers, industry watchers warn of higher costs. Rahul Mehta of the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India estimates a 3-5% rise due to increased shipping expenses. Smaller traders, heavily reliant on low-cost, quick-turnaround shipments from across the border, are expected to face the sharpest blow.
Gurugram-based social commerce startup CityMall is preparing to secure ₹334 crore ($38 million) in a fresh Series D round, according to regulatory filings. The raise will be led by Accel, with participation from long-term backers Waterbridge Ventures, Elevation Capital, Norwest Capital, Citius, General Catalyst and angel investor Rohit Agarwal.
The company’s board has cleared the issue of 7,278 Series D preference shares and one equity share at ₹4,58,716 apiece. Accel will contribute the largest cheque of ₹173.2 crore ($19.7 million), followed by Waterbridge Ventures at ₹52 crore ($5.9 million) and Citius at ₹48.38 crore ($5.5 million). Norwest Capital is slated to invest ₹25.96 crore, Elevation Capital ₹21.65 crore, General Catalyst ₹8.67 crore, while Agarwal is expected to add ₹4 crore.
This is CityMall’s first significant fundraising in over three years, after it raised $75 million in its Series C round in March 2022. The company’s valuation remains unchanged at ₹2,780 crore ($316 million), making this a flat round unless additional capital comes in.
Founded in 2020, CityMall operates through a network of community resellers in smaller towns and cities, selling groceries, FMCG, and household items. The platform has indicated plans to move into higher-margin categories such as beauty and accessories to boost growth.
Financially, the firm has shown mixed progress. Its gross merchandise value (GMV) rose 23 percent in FY24 to ₹427 crore, up from ₹346.4 crore the previous year. Revenue climbed as well, but net losses widened by 10 percent to ₹159 crore.
The proceeds from the new round will go into capital expenditure, marketing, and broader corporate needs as the company looks to consolidate its presence in India’s competitive social commerce space.
Blue Tokai, the homegrown coffee chain that has become a symbol of India’s specialty coffee movement, has raised $25 million in fresh capital to fuel its next phase of growth. The round, backed by existing investors A91 Partners, Anicut, Verlinvest and 12 Flags, comes as the company sharpens its expansion plans both within India and overseas.
The funding will be directed toward opening new cafés across key Indian cities while also building out the company’s backend infrastructure. Two large-scale projects are already in motion: a roastery and bakery facility in Bengaluru and another in Gurugram. These hubs will allow the brand to increase production capacity and improve supply efficiencies as it prepares for a larger footprint.
The company is also preparing for an international push, with Japan and the UAE identified as first markets. The idea is to showcase Indian coffee on a global stage, positioning the brand as an ambassador for the country’s coffee-growing regions.
Blue Tokai, which has already turned profitable, is now setting far more ambitious targets. Co-founder and COO Shivam Ramaswamy said the brand is looking to scale to more than 800 stores and reach ₹2,000 crore in revenue over the next four years, double its earlier projections of ₹1,000 crore revenue and ₹100 crore EBITDA by 2027.
“We are not only building a retail network but also a cultural identity for Indian coffee,” said co-founder and CEO Matt Chitharanjan, noting that the company’s long-term vision is tied to sustainability and fostering entrepreneurship in the ecosystem.
With over a decade of operations behind it and a loyal consumer base, Blue Tokai is now preparing to move from being India’s specialty coffee pioneer to a global nameplate, betting that its mix of quality sourcing and café culture can resonate far beyond its home market.
Thinking about starting an ice cream shop? 🍦 The first step toward success is understanding your ice cream business model—a blueprint that explains how your shop will operate, attract customers, and generate profit.
Whether you want to open a small neighborhood parlor, a trendy gelato shop, or a mobile ice cream truck, a clear business model helps you stand out in a competitive market.
In this guide, we’ll break down the ice cream business model, revenue opportunities, costs, and strategies to build a successful shop.
What Is an Ice Cream Business Model?
An ice cream business model defines how your shop:
Creates value – offering delicious, unique ice cream.
Delivers value – through your shop, truck, or online delivery.
Captures value – generating profits through direct sales, events, and upsells.
It’s essentially the roadmap of your ice cream business, helping you understand your customers, costs, and growth opportunities.
Key Components of an Ice Cream Business Model
1. Value Proposition (Why Customers Choose You)
Your value proposition is what makes your shop unique. Examples include:
Premium, locally sourced ingredients.
Trendy options like rolled ice cream or nitrogen ice cream.
Vegan, dairy-free, or low-sugar alternatives.
Family-friendly atmosphere with Instagram-worthy design.
💡 Tip: Focus on one or two differentiators to make your shop memorable.
2. Customer Segments (Who You Serve)
Successful shops know their audience. Common ice cream customer groups include:
Families with kids looking for a weekend treat.
Teens & young adults drawn to social media trends.
Tourists in high-traffic areas.
Health-conscious customers seeking vegan or keto-friendly options.
Event clients for catering birthdays, weddings, or corporate gatherings.
3. Revenue Streams (How You Make Money)
Ice cream shops can generate income in multiple ways:
💡 On average, an ice cream shop requires $55,000 – $135,000+ to launch, depending on size and location.
Why the Ice Cream Business Model Works
The ice cream industry thrives because:
Demand is steady year-round, with summer peaks.
Ice cream has high markup and low production costs.
New trends (vegan, artisan, rolled) keep customers engaged.
It’s a product that appeals to all generations.
FAQs About the Ice Cream Business Model
1. Is an ice cream shop profitable?
Yes! Most shops see 20–40% net profit margins, especially in busy locations.
2. What’s the cheapest ice cream business model?
A food cart or truck has the lowest startup cost (around $10,000–$30,000) compared to a full shop.
3. Can I make money in the winter?
Yes—by offering hot desserts (waffles, brownies), coffee, or delivery, you can keep sales strong during colder months.
4. Should I open a franchise or independent shop?
Franchises (like Cold Stone) cost more upfront but come with brand recognition. Independent shops allow more creativity and flexibility.
Final Thoughts
A clear ice cream business model is the foundation of your shop’s success. By identifying your target customers, perfecting your menu, and building strong branding, you can scoop up profits while creating a fun, community-driven business.
Whether you’re opening a neighborhood ice cream parlor, a trendy rolled ice cream shop, or a mobile truck, your business model will guide every decision.
Start small, refine your model, and grow into a brand that customers crave. 🍨
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