By Saksham Arora Apollo Pharmacy is one of India’s most trusted and widespread retail pharmacy chains under the Apollo Hospitals Group. With thousands of outlets across the country, it has become a preferred choice for genuine medicines, healthcare products, and wellness essentials. Since medicine is a daily-need product, Apollo Pharmacy is considered a stable and recession-resistant business. This strong demand has made many entrepreneurs curious about the actual cost of opening an Apollo Pharmacy franchise in India.
In this article, we will discuss the real investment required, cost breakdown, space needs, profit potential, and whether this franchise is the right fit for you.
About the Apollo Pharmacy Brand
Apollo Pharmacy is a part of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited and is one of the largest organised pharmacy chains in India.
The brand deals in prescription medicines, OTC products, healthcare equipment, personal care items, and wellness goods. Apollo’s biggest strength lies in trust, standardized pricing, and assured medicine quality, which brings repeat customers daily.
Is Apollo Pharmacy a Franchise or Company-Owned Model?
Apollo Pharmacy operates through a sub-franchise or partner-store model where individual entrepreneurs can open a store under the Apollo brand.
Franchise approval depends on drug license compliance, location quality, and the availability of a qualified pharmacist.
The company provides branding and supply-chain support, while daily store operations are handled by the franchise owner.
Total Apollo Pharmacy Franchise Cost in India
The total investment required to open an Apollo Pharmacy outlet in India usually ranges between ₹30 lakh to ₹60 lakh.
Smaller outlets in non-premium areas may start from around ₹15 lakh to ₹25 lakh.
The final cost depends on store size, city, interiors, equipment, and inventory level.
Apollo Pharmacy Franchise Cost Breakdown
Here is a realistic breakdown of where the money usually goes:
- Franchise Fee: ₹5 to ₹10 lakh
- Security Deposit & Lease Advance: ₹2 to ₹6 lakh
- Store Interior & Fit-Out: ₹10 to ₹25 lakh
- Equipment & Billing Systems: ₹2 to ₹8 lakh
- Initial Inventory Stock: ₹5 to ₹20 lakh
- Licenses & Registrations: ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh
- Working Capital Reserve: ₹5 to ₹10 lakh
Together, these costs place the total investment between ₹30–60 lakh in most cases.
Space & Location Requirement
Apollo Pharmacy outlets usually require 250 to 450 square feet of store space.
The best-performing locations include:
- Near hospitals and clinics
- Busy residential areas
- Main roads and commercial streets
- Marketplaces with daily footfall
Good visibility, parking availability, and easy customer access are critical for success.
Apollo Pharmacy Franchise Profit Margin & ROI
A well-performing Apollo Pharmacy outlet can generate:
- Monthly Revenue: ₹6 lakh to ₹25 lakh
- Net Profit Margin: 10% to 15%
This places estimated monthly profit between ₹60,000 to ₹3.5 lakh, depending on sales volume and operating cost.
The expected return on investment (ROI) period is usually 18 to 36 months.
Apollo Pharmacy Franchise Royalty & Ongoing Charges
Apollo Pharmacy charges a one-time franchise fee at the time of setup.
Ongoing expenses include rent, electricity, staff salary, pharmacist salary, license renewal, and stock refilling.
Royalty or revenue-sharing terms may differ based on individual agreement.
Support Provided by Apollo Pharmacy
Apollo Pharmacy offers strong operational and brand support, which includes:
- Store layout and design guidance
- Centralized medicine supply
- Staff training and operational systems
- Billing and POS setup
- Brand-level marketing support
- Inventory management assistance
However, daily operations, staffing, and compliance remain the responsibility of the franchise owner.
Who Should Invest in an Apollo Pharmacy Franchise?
An Apollo Pharmacy franchise is suitable for individuals who:
- Have capital availability of ₹30–60 lakh
- Can arrange a licensed pharmacist
- Have access to good commercial location
- Are ready for active business involvement
- Can manage regulatory compliance
It is not suitable for people looking for quick profit or passive income.
Risks & Challenges to Consider
Even with a strong brand, pharmacy retail has challenges such as:
- Strict drug law compliance
- Risk of expired stock
- High inventory investment
- Rising rental and salary costs
- Competition from local and online pharmacies
Proper compliance and inventory control are essential for sustainable profits.
How to Apply for an Apollo Pharmacy Franchise
Interested investors can apply through:
- Apollo Pharmacy’s official enquiry platform
- Authorized business development partners
- Direct contact with Apollo regional office
After application, location verification, financial screening, and regulatory checks are conducted before approval.
Conclusion
The Apollo Pharmacy franchise in India is a stable, high-trust healthcare retail business backed by one of the most respected medical brands in the country. With a total investment ranging from ₹30 lakh to ₹60 lakh, it is a serious long-term venture rather than a small startup. Daily demand, strong brand value, and centralized supply support make it a reliable option for disciplined entrepreneurs. However, success depends on strict legal compliance, correct location choice, and efficient stock and cost management. For investors seeking a dependable healthcare business with steady returns, Apollo Pharmacy is a solid opportunity.