By Kavita Mistry 
Blinkit, formerly known as Grofers, is one of India’s leading quick commerce companies. Presently, becoming a Blinkit franchise partner can be a smart and profitable business move. In this article, our franchise experts have provided all the details of the Blinkit franchise program, covering costs, eligibility, setup, and profit strategies.
Why Start a Blinkit Franchise?
India’s quick commerce (Q-commerce) space is on fire, with the market projected to hit $5 billion+ by 2025 (source: RedSeer Report). At the forefront of this change is Blinkit, a Zomato-owned hyperlocal delivery platform, which offers 10-minute deliveries of everyday essentials, groceries, and beyond.
For entrepreneurs, a Blinkit franchise provides an affluent option to enter the booming Indian market of instant deliveries. It is the best bet today and here is why:
- Skyrocketing Growth: Blinkit serves 30+ Indian cities and processes 1.5+ lakh orders a day (Zomato Annual Report 2023).
- Low-Cost, High-Demand Model: With dark stores (mini-warehouses) and a technology-enabled supply chain, Blinkit achieves high efficiency and scalability.
- Revenue Potential: Franchise partners make ₹15–₹50 per delivery (depending on location/order volume), with high-performing stores reaching ₹1–2 lakh/month in profits.
Understanding the Blinkit Franchise Model
Blinkit operates on a dark store model, and that is where they maintain mini-warehouses in high-demand areas. These are customer-inaccessible but are utilised to quickly deliver online orders.
- Dark Store Model: Blinkit franchises aren’t like typical retail—instead, they’re micro-warehouses (dark stores) which stock high-demand groceries, snacks, and essentials. These aren’t walk-in stores—orders are only via the Blinkit app.
- Hyperlocal Delivery Network: Each franchise serves a 3–5 km radius with 10–15 minute delivery times. Blinkit’s AI-powered demand forecasting maximises inventory for high-speed products.
Types of Blinkit Franchise Partnerships
- Store Partner: Open and run a Blinkit dark store (investment: ₹15–25 lakhs).
- Delivery Hub Partner: Run last-mile delivery operations (lower investment).
- Hybrid Model: Some partners run inventory and delivery operations.
Blinkit generally has a commission-based system, with the franchisees being paid per order fulfilled or on sales.
Benefits of Owning a Blinkit Franchise
- Low Overheads: No prime retail space required—run out of a compact warehouse (1,000–1,500 sq ft).
- Brand Power: Ride on Zomato’s 50 M+ user base and marketing muscle.
- Tech & Logistics Support: Blinkit offers inventory management software and delivery rider allocation. Partner with an app-based real-time order tracking.
- Scalability: Existing Kirana Owners can grow revenue by converting part of their store into a dark store.
- Earn Passive Income: Investors can make semi-passive income with a 12–18 month return on investment.
Eligibility Criteria for Blinkit Franchise
To start a Blinkit franchise in India, here’s what you’ll need:
- Investment Capacity: Around ₹15–₹25 lakhs, depending on the city and store size.
- Space Requirement: 1000–1500 sq. ft. in a high-demand residential or commercial area.
- Legal Documents: GST registration, trade license, shop & establishment act compliance.
- Preferred Cities: Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Hyderabad, and Kolkata are in higher demand.
Key Location Rules:
- Residential/Commercial Mix Areas (apartments, offices, colleges)
- Avoid: Oversaturated zones (existing Blinkit/Zepto dark stores nearby)
- Ground Floor Preferred: Easy loading/unloading access
Check: How to Open a Zepto Franchise in India
Documents Required
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| PAN & Aadhaar | KYC Verification |
| GST Registration | Mandatory for billing |
| Business Proof (Shop Act/LLP) | Legal compliance |
| Rent Agreement/Property Papers | Location approval |
| Bank Statements (6 Months) | Financial stability check |
Blinkit Franchise Cost & Profit Margin
Opening a Blinkit franchise business depends on a keen sense of understanding costs and possible profit. The following is an in-depth financial analysis, as well as current investment demands, operational costs, and projections of ROI to ensure you make a well-informed decision.
A. Total Investment Breakdown
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | 2,00,000 – 3,00,000 |
| Store Setup & Renovation | 3,00,000 – 4,50,000 |
| Inventory (Initial Stock) | 2,50,000 – 3,50,000 |
| Technology & Software | 1,00,000 – 1,50,000 |
| Working Capital (3 Months) | 2,00,000 – 3,00,000 |
| Miscellaneous (Licenses, Marketing) | 50,000 – 1,00,000 |
| Total Estimated Investment | ₹10 – 15 Lakhs |
Note: Costs vary based on city (metro vs. tier 2) and store location.
B. Monthly Operational Costs
| Expense | Monthly Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1,000–1,500 sq ft) | 30,000 – 60,000 |
| Staff Salaries (4–6 employees) | 80,000 – 1,20,000 |
| Electricity & Maintenance | 15,000 – 25,000 |
| Packaging & Logistics | 20,000 – 40,000 |
| Marketing & Promotions | 10,000 – 30,000 |
| Total Monthly Expenses | ₹1.5 – 2.5 Lakhs |
C. Revenue & Profit Potential
Earnings Per Order
- Commission: ₹20 – ₹60 per delivery (depends on order value & location)
- Average Daily Orders: 150 – 250 (in well-performing stores)
Monthly Revenue:
- Low Estimate: 150 orders/day x ₹30/order x 30 days = ₹1.35 Lakh/month
- High Estimate: 250 orders/day x ₹50/order x 30 days = ₹3.75 Lakh/month
Net Profit Calculation
| Scenario | Monthly Revenue (₹) | Expenses (₹) | Net Profit (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Demand | 1.35 Lakh | 1.5 Lakh | -15,000 (Loss) |
| Moderate Demand | 2.5 Lakh | 2.0 Lakh | 50,000 |
| High Demand | 3.75 Lakh | 2.5 Lakh | 1.25 Lakh |
Expected ROI: Most Blinkit partners recover their investment in 12–18 months, depending on order volume.
5. Step-by-Step Application Process
Starting your Blinkit franchise journey requires a smooth application process. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you successfully apply and get approved, including the latest updates from Blinkit’s franchise portal.
A. Pre-Application Checklist
Before applying, ensure you have:
✅ Required Documents (PAN, Aadhaar, GST, Business Proof)
✅ Location Finalised (1,000–1,500 sq ft, meeting Blinkit’s criteria)
✅ Financial Readiness (₹10–15 lakhs investment proof)
B. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Online Registration
Visit Blinkit’s Official Franchise Portal. Click “Apply Now” and fill in:
- Personal/Business details
- Preferred city & location
- Estimated investment capacity
Step 2: Preliminary Screening
- Blinkit’s team reviews your application within 3–5 working days.
- You’ll receive an email/SMS if shortlisted.
Step 3: Location Verification
A Blinkit representative visits your proposed site to check:
✔ Accessibility (delivery bike entry/exit)
✔ Space Compliance (1,000–1,500 sq ft)
✔ Demand Potential (near residential/office hubs)
Step 4: Financial & Legal Documentation
Submit scanned copies of:
- KYC (PAN, Aadhaar)
- Business Proof (GST, Shop Act License/LLP Certificate)
- Bank Statements (last 6 months)
- Property Papers/Rent Agreement
Step 5: Franchise Agreement Signing
Review Terms:
- Commission Structure
- Inventory Guidelines
- Brand Compliance
Sign digitally via Blinkit’s portal.
Step 6: Store Setup & Training
2-Week Setup Period:
- Install Blinkit-branded signage.
- Set up inventory shelves & tech systems
Staff Training:
- Order management via Blinkit Partner App.
- Delivery protocols & customer service.
Step 7: Go Live!
- Blinkit activates your store on their app.
- Start accepting orders—first 50 deliveries often prioritised for visibility.
C. Timeline Summary (From Application to Launch)
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Application Submission | 1 Day |
| Preliminary Approval | 3–5 Days |
| Location Verification | 7–10 Days |
| Documentation & Agreement | 5–7 Days |
| Store Setup & Training | 10–15 Days |
| Total Estimated Time | 4–6 Weeks |
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Some challenges you might face:
- High Competition: Other players like Swiggy, Instamart and Zepto are in the market.
- Logistics Issues: Late deliveries can hurt ratings.
- Fluctuating Demand: Festivals and seasons affect order volume.
Blinkit’s Support:
- Inventory restocking assistance.
- Tech support and app updates.
- Regular performance reviews and guidance.
More Franchise Opportunities:
FAQs on Blinkit Franchise
Is there a franchise fee?
Currently, Blinkit may not charge a direct franchise fee, but a refundable deposit or setup fee could apply.
What is the monthly profit?
On average, profits can range from ₹80,000 to ₹2 lakhs, depending on order volume.
Does Blinkit provide marketing support?
Yes, Blinkit helps with local marketing, online ads, and app visibility.
Do I need retail experience?
Not necessarily. Blinkit provides training for new partners.
Conclusion
Entering the rapidly growing quick commerce market by starting a Blinkit franchise in India is an intelligent decision. With the appropriate location, proper planning, and guidance from Blinkit, your franchise will be a successful business within one year.
