How to Start FirstCry Franchise Business in India – Complete Guide
Are you looking forward to starting the FirstCry franchise in India? If yes, you are in the right place. Find in this article, complete details including cost, investment, and contact details for the opening of the Firstcry retail franchise business.
FirstCry is a reputed baby and kidswear brand. It sells baby and kids products. The company is planning to open at least 60 franchises in the next 12 months.
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FirstCry Franchise Cost in India
The investment required is approximately Rs 20 Lacs- Rs. 40 Lacs depending upon the area of the store. The location of the store is preferred in high streets and malls where there are sufficient footfalls.
Furthermore, the area required to open a FirstCry store is a minimum of 1000 sq. ft. The expected return on investment is around 30-35%. The estimated payback period is 18 – 24 months.
Furthermore, the franchise partner will be provided with a standard dealership agreement. The duration of the contract is 5 years and can be renewed by mutual consent at the end of the period.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs involved:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | 2-3 Lakhs |
| Store Setup | 10-15 Lakhs |
| Inventory | 10-20 Lakhs |
| Marketing and Promotion | 1-2 Lakhs |
| Miscellaneous | 1-2 Lakhs |
| Total | 24-42 Lakhs |
The investment also includes the cost of furniture, fixtures, and IT infrastructure.
FirstCry Company Details
FirstCry is promoted by the Mahindra Group of Companies. The company started its operation in India in the year 2010. However, they started to offer franchise/distribution opportunities in 2011.
Read: Top Multi-Brand Clothing Franchise Opportunities
Asia’s Largest Online Portal for Baby and Kids Products. The company sells 2 Lakh+ Baby and Kids items from 2 Thousand+ top International and Indian brands like Mattel, Ben10, Pigeon, Funskool, Hotwheels, Nuby, Farlin, Medela, Pampers, Disney, Barbie, Gerber, Fisher-Price, etc.
Currently, the company mainly operates from Pune while it ships orders from warehouses located across India.
Some of the popular product ranges include:
- Diapers
- Baby food
- Infant accessories
- Gears (strollers, high chairs)
- Nursery furniture
- Clothes and Footwear
- Toys and back-to-school products
FirstCry at present has more than 40 franchise outlets spread over the entire country.
Also Read: Top Retail Distribution Business Ideas
Why Choose a FirstCry Franchise?
FirstCry has established itself as a leader in the baby products industry with over 350 stores across India. The brand offers a wide range of products, including clothing, footwear, toys, diapers, and baby care items. Here are some reasons why starting a FirstCry franchise is a smart business move:
- Strong Brand Recognition: FirstCry is a well-known brand with a strong customer base.
- Wide Product Range: The franchise offers a comprehensive range of baby and kids’ products.
- Proven Business Model: FirstCry has a successful franchise model with a strong support system.
- Growing Market: The demand for baby and kids’ products is consistently growing in India.
Steps to Start a FirstCry Franchise
1. Understand the Franchise Model
FirstCry offers a franchise model that includes both investment and support from the parent company. It’s crucial to understand the requirements and benefits of their franchise model before proceeding.
2. Research and Planning
Conduct thorough research on the baby products market in your locality. Identify potential competitors, understand customer preferences, and analyze market trends. Planning includes selecting the right location, budgeting, and setting business goals.
4. Location and Store Setup
Choosing the right location is critical for the success of your franchise. Ideal locations include shopping malls, high street areas, and residential localities with a high density of young families. The store setup should be appealing and child-friendly, with ample space to display products attractively.
5. Legal Requirements and Documentation
You will need to complete several legal formalities to start your franchise, including:
- Business Registration
- GST Registration
- Trade License
- Franchise Agreement
Ensure that you have all the necessary documents and permits to operate legally.
6. Training and Support
FirstCry provides extensive training and support to its franchisees, including:
- Initial Training: Covers store operations, inventory management, customer service, and sales techniques.
- Ongoing Support: Includes marketing support, promotional activities, and regular updates on new products.
7. Marketing and Promotion
Marketing plays a crucial role in attracting customers to your store. FirstCry assists its franchisees with marketing strategies and promotional activities. Additionally, you should focus on local marketing efforts, such as:
- Social Media Marketing
- Local Newspaper Ads
- In-Store Promotions
- Participation in Community Events
8. Launch and Operations
Once everything is set up, plan a grand opening to attract initial customers. Ensure smooth store operations by maintaining inventory levels, providing excellent customer service, and regularly updating your store layout.
FirstCry Contact Details
To apply for a FirstCry franchise or more information, you can contact FirstCry through the following methods:
- Website: https://www.firstcry.com/franchise
- Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the franchise fee for FirstCry?
The franchise fee for a FirstCry franchise is typically between INR 2 to 3 lakhs.
What kind of support does FirstCry provide to its franchisees?
FirstCry provides comprehensive support, including initial training, ongoing marketing support, inventory management, and regular updates on new products.
What are the legal requirements for starting a FirstCry franchise?
You will need to complete legal formalities such as business registration, GST registration, obtaining a trade license, and signing a franchise agreement.
How do I apply for a FirstCry franchise?
You can apply for a FirstCry franchise by visiting their franchise page on the FirstCry website, sending an email to [email protected]
Is there any ongoing royalty fee?
FirstCry typically charges an ongoing royalty fee, but it is best to confirm the current terms directly with the company.
How can I choose the best location for my FirstCry franchise?
Ideal locations for a FirstCry franchise include shopping malls, high street areas, and residential localities with a high density of young families.
Can I own multiple FirstCry franchises?
Yes, FirstCry allows franchisees to own multiple stores, depending on their performance and the availability of suitable locations.
What are the primary challenges of running a FirstCry franchise?
The primary challenges include the initial investment, competition in the baby products market, and managing inventory, staff, and customer expectations.
