How To Obtain a 1mg Franchise: Investment, Requirements & Possibilities

The pandemic accelerated the need for online medicine delivery services, making it a requirement in the ever-changing Indian healthcare and pharmaceutical industry. Among several players, 1mg (now Tata 1mg) stands out as a trustworthy platform for purchasing medicines, diagnostic services, and healthcare products. Backed by the Tata Group, the platform offers significant brand equity and a strong foundation for aspiring franchise partners.

If you’re planning to enter the fast-growing health-tech space, this guide covers everything you need to know about acquiring a 1mg franchise—investment, application process, infrastructure requirements, and business potential.

What is 1mg?

1mg is an Indian-based digital healthcare platform offering:

• Online prescriptions and medicines
• Lab test bookings
• Doctor consultations
• Wellness products
• Health articles and information

After being acquired by the Tata Group in 2021, 1mg was rebranded as Tata 1mg, adding operational credibility and market trust.

Why Choose 1mg?

• Brand Reputation: Backed by Tata Group, with a trusted name and large customer base
• Market Potential: Indian online pharmacy industry expected to grow at a 20–25% CAGR
• Low Operational Burden: Centralized backend operations
• Omnichannel Strength: Online + physical pharmacy model
• Diverse Offerings: Medicines, lab tests, OTC products, and digital healthcare services

1mg Franchise Models

While 1mg hasn’t officially launched a detailed franchise model, the industry suggests two primary types:

1. Retail Pharmacy Franchise
   • A branded store offering prescription/OTC drugs, wellness products, and test bookings
2. Diagnostic Collection Center
   • A standalone outlet for lab test sample collection
   • Requires lower capital and operational expenses compared to retail stores

Steps to Apply for a 1mg Franchise

Step 1: Preparation

• Research the 1mg model and visit existing stores if possible
• Decide your location and budget

Step 2: Submit an Application

1mg doesn’t have an official franchise portal. Apply by:

• Visiting official site of 1mg
• Clicking on “Contact Us” at the bottom
• Emailing: care@1mg.com or partners@1mg.com

Include in Email:

• Full Name
• Location of interest
• Why the location is suitable
• Investment capability
• Any relevant business background

Step 3: Screening

• Proposals are evaluated based on location and alignment with 1mg’s expansion strategy
• Unique ideas or strategic locations may stand out

Step 4: Agreement

• Once shortlisted, sign the franchise agreement with mutually agreed terms

Step 5: Setup and Training

• Set up your store according to brand guidelines
• Conduct staff training (sales, compliance, software)
• Integrate with 1mg’s online systems and marketing efforts

Estimated Investment Required

Category	Approximate Cost (INR)
Franchise Fee	₹3–7 Lakhs (depends on region)
Inventory	₹4–8 Lakhs
Equipment (Fridge, POS)	₹1–2 Lakhs
Initial Staff Salaries	₹1–2 Lakhs
Miscellaneous	₹1 Lakh
Total	₹15–25 Lakhs

Varies by location, store format, and services offered

Infrastructure Requirements

• Area: 200–400 sq. ft.
• Location: High footfall, near hospitals or residential areas
• Accessibility: Ground floor preferred, visible signage
• Basic Setup:
  • Air conditioning
  • Medicine-grade fridge
  • Desktop with internet
  • Security camera
  • Medicine racks and storage

Staffing and Legal Requirements

• Staff:
  • Qualified pharmacist
  • Store manager or assistant
• Licenses:
  • Pharmacy License (for store owner or hired pharmacist)
  • Drug License Number (issued by local FDA/inspector)
  • GST Registration
• Skills:
  • Customer service
  • Compliance and sales
  • Pharma background (preferred but not mandatory)

Benefits of 1mg Franchise

• Brand Leverage: Built-in customer trust and footfall
• Marketing Support: Nationwide campaigns benefit all stores
• Skill Development: Training, software, and operational guides provided

Things to Keep in Mind

• Higher startup cost than generic stores
• Regulated drug sales
• Location is critical to success
• Competes with online and local pharmacies

Final Thoughts

A 1mg franchise is an attractive opportunity for entrepreneurs entering the booming health-tech sector. With strong digital infrastructure and brand backing from Tata, it combines innovation with reliability. However, thorough planning, compliance with healthcare norms, and commitment to customer service are essential for success.

Disclaimer: All information is based on industry analysis and available data. For official details, contact 1mg directly via email or website.