Consumer behavior is not what it used to be. Today’s buyers are smarter, faster, and more aware. Their preferences are constantly evolving — influenced by technology, lifestyle, social media, and values. This shift in how people think, buy, and experience things is having a huge impact on the franchise industry in India.
Brands like U.S. Dollar Store 99, Shree, Momo Nation Cafe, Pepperfry, and Big Bash House are adapting quickly to stay in tune with changing consumer habits. In this article, we’ll break down how these changes affect franchise models, and how both franchisors and franchisees can stay ahead.
💡 Why Consumer Behavior Matters in Franchising
A franchise is successful when it serves what people want — where and how they want it. If people stop wanting what you offer, or want it delivered differently, the business suffers.
So, understanding what’s changing in consumer habits is not optional — it’s essential.
🔄 Major Shifts in Consumer Behavior
Let’s explore the keyways consumer behavior is changing and how it impacts franchise models in India.
1. Convenience Over Everything
Today’s consumers want things to be fast and easy. Whether it’s ordering food online, booking appointments, or shopping with one click, convenience is king.
📌 Franchise Impact:
Brands are creating smaller formats, cloud kitchens, and tech-enabled outlets.
👉 Example:
Momo Nation Cafe offers dine-in as well as cloud kitchen models. This lets franchisees serve customers through delivery without needing a large space.
2. Value for Money
People are becoming more budget-conscious. They want quality at affordable prices. This doesn’t mean the cheapest option — it means they want to feel they’re getting value.
📌 Franchise Impact:
Franchise models need to keep pricing flexible. Offering combo deals, festive discounts, and loyalty programs helps retain customers.
👉 Example:
U.S. Dollar Store 99 taps into this mindset perfectly — everything is value-driven. Customers know they’ll find useful, affordable items under one roof.
3. Local Preferences & Customization
India is a diverse country. What works in Delhi might not work in Indore or Kochi. Consumers today prefer brands that speak their language — literally and culturally.
📌 Franchise Impact:
Successful brands allow local customization of product range, marketing, and even store look.
👉 Example:
Shree – The Indian Avatar designs ethnic wear keeping regional tastes in mind. A franchisee in Jaipur can stock more Bandhani styles, while one in Kolkata may focus on handloom saris.
4. Health & Sustainability Awareness
People now care about what’s in their food, where their clothes come from, and how brands treat the planet. Health and sustainability are no longer trends — they’re expectations.
📌 Franchise Impact:
Franchisors are now focusing on cleaner supply chains, eco-friendly packaging, and healthier product options.
👉 Example:
Several Momo Nation Cafe outlets now offer steamed momos, whole wheat options, and use biodegradable packaging.
5. Experiential Buying
Today, people don’t just want to buy something — they want an experience. This is true across categories — from food to fashion to even furniture.
📌 Franchise Impact:
Franchise models now include immersive brand experiences like try-before-you-buy, gaming, or lifestyle integration.
👉 Example:
Big Bash House offers a unique private cinema and entertainment experience. Instead of just “watching a movie,” people enjoy gaming, snacks, and celebration vibes. It’s an ideal format for urban consumers seeking fun & privacy.
6. Tech-Enabled Expectations
From WhatsApp ordering to QR code menus and instant digital payments — consumers expect technology to be part of the experience.
📌 Franchise Impact:
Brands are building franchise formats with built-in tech tools — POS systems, CRM tools, order management apps, etc.
👉 Example:
Pepperfry uses augmented reality in their app so users can see how furniture looks in their home. This tech-savvy approach helps franchise showrooms convert more customers.
🧠 Expert Insight: What Franchisors Should Do
Franchisors need to evolve their models to keep pace with consumer changes. Here’s what works:
- 💬 Listen to feedback: Use surveys, online reviews, and store reports to learn what people want.
- 🔄 Adapt fast: Update offerings seasonally or regionally based on market demand.
- 🤝 Train franchisees: Educate them about current trends, product USPs, and customer engagement tactics.
- 📊 Use data: Guide your network using performance insights and market research.
🛠️ Franchisee Perspective: How to Choose the Right Brand
If you’re planning to buy a franchise, ask yourself:
- Does this brand meet today’s consumer needs?
- Are they flexible in operations and marketing?
- Do they offer support with local trends?
- Are they keeping up with technology and innovation?
When a brand is aligned with changing behavior, it’s more likely to stay relevant and profitable.
🧾 Case Study: A Tale of Two Stores
Let’s take an example of two franchise outlets in the same city.
- Store A follows the old method — no delivery, basic branding, and no tech.
- Store B adapts — offers online delivery, festive discounts, and regularly updates décor.
Over 6 months, Store B sees 40% more footfall and double the repeat customers. Why? Because they gave customers what they were looking for.
👉 Lesson: Franchise success is directly linked to how well you understand consumer behavior.
📦 What’s Next for Franchise Models?
As consumer expectations rise, we’re going to see:
- 🏪 Smaller, smarter outlets
- 📱 Digital-first customer engagement
- 🌱 Green and clean business formats
- 🧘♂️ Experience-rich lifestyle offerings
Franchisees who are flexible, observant, and customer-focused will have the upper hand. And franchisors who stay in tune with trends will build stronger networks.
✅ Nutshell
Consumer behavior is always changing — but in today’s digital, fast-paced world, it’s changing faster than ever.
Franchising is no longer just about a strong brand name. It’s about delivering what today’s consumer wants — where, when, and how they want it.
Brands like Shree, U.S. Dollar Store 99, Pepperfry, Big Bash House, and Momo Nation Cafe are proving that the key to growth lies in adapting to change.
So whether you’re a franchisor designing your model, or a franchisee picking the right brand, remember:
“The customer is evolving — and your success depends on evolving with them.”