Geetanjali Studio Expands Its Premium Salon Franchise Opportunity Across India

Hair Masters Builds a Luxury Salon Network

Founded in 2014 by Danish Batra, Hair Masters started with a single salon in Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi, and has since expanded its network across India. During the webinar, the brand stated that it has grown to 100-plus salons across 20-plus states, supported by around 4,000 professionals and training academies in Delhi and Chandigarh.

The brand positions itself beyond traditional hair services, bringing hair, beauty, skin, makeup and nail services together under a premium salon experience. Its approach focuses on personalised consultations, professional expertise and a consistent customer experience across locations.

Two Franchise Formats for Different Markets

Hair Masters currently offers two franchise models. The Hair Masters Salon format is designed for prime and flagship markets and requires approximately 1,100 to 4,000 sq ft. The brand presented an investment range of around Rs 75 lakh to Rs 1 crore, with a Rs 20 lakh franchise fee and 7% royalty.

The Hair Masters Studio is a more compact format designed for markets where a smaller footprint is required. The format requires around 500 to 1,100 sq ft, with an investment range of Rs 25 lakh to Rs 50 lakh, a Rs 10 lakh franchise fee and 5% royalty, according to the webinar.

Franchise Support Covers Operations and Marketing

A major part of the Hair Masters franchise proposition is its structured support system. The company assists partners with location identification, salon operations, SOPs, hiring, staff training and a train-the-owner programme. It also provides online and offline marketing support, including local marketing, social media pages, SEO pages and advertising support.

Technology is another component of the model, with the brand stating that its salon operations use software and AI-enabled systems for reporting and performance tracking.

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Premium Beauty Services Under One Brand

Hair Masters offers services across hair, beauty, skin, nails and makeup for men and women. Its portfolio includes haircuts, colour and texture services, facials, HydraFacial, Korean facial treatments, nail services and professional makeup.

The brand also highlighted partnerships with international professional beauty brands and its focus on premium-grade products.

Expansion Across New Markets

During the webinar, Hair Masters identified Maharashtra, Pune, Andhra Pradesh, Assam and Madhya Pradesh among the markets it is looking to expand into. The company said it is open to partners from different professional backgrounds, with motivation and willingness to participate in the business being key considerations.

With two outlet formats and structured support across operations, staffing, marketing and technology, Hair Masters is positioning its franchise opportunity around the growing organised beauty and grooming segment in India.

India's beauty and grooming industry keeps growing every year, and with it, the number of entrepreneurs asking the same question: which salon franchise in India is actually worth the money? Between rising rent, competitive royalty fees, and a market flooded with new brands, picking the right one can feel overwhelming.

To make that decision easier, we looked at five franchise brands that stand out in 2026 for different reasons — legacy, niche positioning, low investment, or fast expansion. Whether you're chasing the best salon franchise in India for a metro city or hunting for a salon franchise in India with low investment for a tier-2 town, one of these should be on your shortlist.

1. Geetanjali Salon

Geetanjali Salon has been part of India's beauty landscape for over three decades, built under the leadership of Sumit Israni, its Managing Director and Celebrity Hair Designer. What makes it stand out among Beauty Salon Franchise Opportunities is its blend of heritage and modern positioning — it has introduced premium international skincare lines at select outlets and maintains a long-running partnership with L'Oréal Professionnel for training and product standards.

Best for: Investors targeting premium, metro-city clientele who want an established, recognisable name with strong training infrastructure.

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2. Gallantry Salon

Gallantry Salon takes a very different approach — it's positioned as the world's first army-themed salon chain, founded by Pushpendra Singh, with a handful of outlets across Delhi NCR. The brand offers discounted services to army personnel and their families as a tribute to the forces, alongside an in-house training academy. It's now actively expanding through franchising, with a relatively modest footprint requirement of around 100 sq ft and an investment in the ₹10–11 lakh range, making it one of the more accessible entries if you're comparing salon franchise in India with low investment options.

Best for: First-time franchisees looking for a lower entry cost and a distinctive brand story that stands out locally.

3. Headcase Barbers

Originally built in the UK in December 2000, Headcase Barbers has spent over two decades restoring the traditional men's barbershop experience — think good music, oversized mirrors, and a relaxed, social atmosphere rather than a clinical one. The brand grew to around 40 locations by 2019 and has master franchisees operating internationally, with expansion interest now extending into Indian markets. For anyone specifically scouting a men's-focused or Unisex Salon Franchise model with an international brand behind it, this is worth researching further.

Best for: Franchisees who want a barbershop-first concept with an established international operating playbook.

4. Scissors Elite

Scissors Elite (operating under the CA Crownz Group) was established in 2012 by founder Chinni Hasan, who began his career in the hair and beauty industry in 2008. The brand has built its franchise model around structured support — location selection, staff recruitment and training, marketing strategy, and access to certified products — which are the details that matter most once you're actually running day-to-day operations, not just signing the franchise agreement.

Best for: New entrepreneurs who value hands-on franchisor support over brand prestige.

5. Naturals Salon

No list of Beauty Salon Franchise Opportunities in India would be complete without Naturals. Founded in 2000 and franchising since 2006, it's widely regarded as India's largest unisex hair and beauty salon chain, with hundreds of franchise units across the country. It was also one of the first brands to popularise the unisex salon concept in India, and it continues to run a structured franchise programme with training and marketing support for new owners — a solid benchmark if you're comparing what the best salon franchise in India actually looks like at scale.

Best for: Investors who want a proven, large-scale unisex salon brand with a long operating track record.

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How to Actually Choose

Before signing anything, it helps to compare these five (or any others on your list) across the same basics:

• Investment range — franchise fee plus setup cost, and whether it fits your budget for a salon franchise in India with low investment
• Training and support — how much hands-on help you get before and after opening
• Local demand — whether the brand's positioning (premium, budget, unisex, men's-only) matches your target neighbourhood
• Royalty structure — ongoing fees can affect long-term profitability more than the upfront cost does

If you’re planning to become a franchisee in the near future and are unsure whom to partner with, consider the top international salon franchise brands. India’s beauty and grooming market is growing fast, and international salon brands are moving in. For entrepreneurs looking at a beauty salon franchise or a salon franchise in India, this is a great time to explore international salon franchise opportunities. Below is a simple, investor-friendly guide to six big names: da Salon, Laser Skin, Headcase Barbers, Toni & Guy, Lakmé Salon, and VLCC, with what they offer, where they are, and how their franchise models work.

Why Are International Salon Franchises Investing in India?

Nowadays, consumers are paying more for premium grooming, and brand-driven salons deliver trusted services, training, and marketing. For someone starting a franchise business in India, international brands reduce risk as you get a proven model, standard operating procedures, and national (or global) brand recognition, all of which are important when choosing the best salon franchise in India. Here are a few international salon franchise brands that can help you get the brand value and high ROI.

Laser Skin 

Laser Skin is a UK-based clinic-style brand focused on medical aesthetics and advanced skin treatments.  The brand is known for using FDA/NHS-approved tech, such as the Motus AY, for painless hair removal and for providing customized care across various skin types, often partnering with medical professionals for treatments like PCOS management. It has more than 25 clinics in the UK and also 3 institutes there. It is relatively new in India but is positioned as a premium, international-led aesthetic chain and plans to open franchise stores in India, targeting metro and other major cities. The franchise model it uses is the Franchise-Owned, Franchise-Operated (FOFO) model.

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Headcase Barbers

Headcase Barbers is a UK-based, internationally expanding men’s grooming brand known for reviving traditional barbershop culture with a modern, stylish twist, offering quality cuts, a comfortable atmosphere, and franchising opportunities, positioning itself as a premium, family-friendly, and reliable spot for men’s hair care. The brand provides standard training, interior design specs, and marketing support, a classic franchise package for an international salon franchise targeting male customers. It uses the Franchise-Owned, Franchise-Operated (FOFO) model, operates over 60 outlets, and has a presence in Seychelles, South Africa, Ireland, and the Netherlands.

Toni & Guy 

Toni & Guy is a British international chain of hairdressing salons founded in the UK in 1963 by brothers Toni and Guy Mascolo. It has been renowned as an innovator in the hair industry, having grown from a single unit in Clapham, London, to a multinational company. It has over 150 outlets in India and plans to open a few more in the near future. It uses the Franchise-Owned, Franchise-Operated (FOFO) model and offers franchise opportunities through an established local setup. The brand also has an academy-backed training system. From site selection to training to product supply and marketing, it offers complete support. This is often listed among the top beauty salon brands for investors seeking premium positioning.

Truefitt & Hill 

London-based barber shop chain Truefitt & Hill was established in 1805 by William Francis Truefitt, who styled himself as hairdresser to the British Royal Court, and the firm received its first Royal Warrant from King George III. It has a footprint of around 34 locations across 14 cities in India. The brand plans to open around 50 stores in India in the near future. Lloyds Luxuries Ltd (LLL) has successfully acquired the Master Franchise License for Truefitt & Hill and is currently also acquiring exclusive distribution rights for various men’s luxury brands.

Marie Claire

Paris-based brand Marie Claire is a global media and lifestyle brand, known for trends in fashion, beauty, and culture, which has expanded significantly through print, digital platforms, and licensing into diverse products like clothing, cosmetics, accessories, and even salon services, aiming to inspire women to be smart and look amazing. The brand has over 25 outlets in India and plans to launch more in the near future. It primarily uses a licensed franchise model, especially for its popular Marie Claire Paris Salon & Wellness centers, offering a standardized business system with strong brand recognition, training, and support for partners in beauty, wellness, and lifestyle product segments across various countries, including India, for premium yet accessible services. 

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If you’re exploring beauty franchise opportunities, these international and premium brands give clear paths, from tech-enabled platforms like Marie Claire to clinic-style Laser Skin, barber-focused Headcase, salon-education-backed Toni & Guy, and established all-rounder Truefitt & Hill. Each has its own model, investment size, and target location, so pick the brand and format that match your budget and market. 

FAQs on Top International Beauty Salon Franchises

Why are international salon brands expanding in India?

India’s grooming and beauty market is growing rapidly, with rising demand for premium services, making it attractive for global salon brands to scale through franchising.

Is it profitable to invest in an international salon franchise?

Yes, franchise investors benefit from proven business models, established branding, marketing support, training, and higher trust among consumers, reducing operational risk.

What franchise model do most international salon brands follow?

Most operate on the FOFO (Franchise-Owned, Franchise-Operated) model, where investors own the outlet and run it with guidance from the brand.

What support do international salon franchises offer to partners?

Support typically includes training, branding, interior design guidelines, marketing assistance, tech integration, recruitment support, and operational SOPs.

How do investors choose the right salon brand?

Evaluate based on budget, city suitability, target market (men, women, or unisex), service scope (salon or aesthetics clinic), and level of brand support.

What qualifications are needed to become a salon franchisee?

No technical background is needed. Business acumen, investment capacity, and willingness to follow brand standards are sufficient, as training is provided.

 If you’re an entrepreneur looking for a profitable, trendy, and interesting concept to leverage your beauty industry expertise, investing in a salon and skincare franchise in India is one of the best decisions you can make. Nowadays, the beauty industry is growing rapidly in India, and consumers are influenced by various influencers and celebrities too easily. And, if you have a good business strategy, a great concept, and the right franchise partner, you can grow your salon business with less effort. 

Today, women in India are shaping the beauty business, as seen everywhere. There are many women entrepreneurs in the beauty sector in India, including Falguni Nayar (Nykaa), Vineeta Singh (SUGAR Cosmetics), Vandana Luthra (VLCC), and others, who are doing a great job with their expertise and passion. And, when it comes to franchise opportunities in India, salon and skincare brands are looking for such passionate women. 

Top Salon and Skincare Franchise Brands To Consider

Once you’ve decided to invest in the beauty segment, start looking for top skincare franchise brands. Here are the top 7 salon and skincare franchise brands in India, with which you can plan your new journey. These brands will help you find the right location, a skilled workforce, beautiful designs for the space, and a cozy atmosphere. 

Trimy Tones

Trimy Tones is one of the fastest-growing salon chains in India, offering aspiring investors great franchise opportunities to grow their businesses. The brand is popular among millennials and Gen Z and is expanding rapidly not only in metros but also in Tier II cities. One looking to franchise with Trimmy Tones can achieve higher profits with a lower initial investment. The brand also offers its partners strong staff training and tech systems. 

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Lakmé Salon  

Lakmé, owned by Unilever, is the most trusted beauty salon chain in India, with around 400 outlets in almost 125 cities. Over the years, the brand has trained more than 280 entrepreneurs in growing their businesses. Recently, the brand has signed a contract with Aptech to start around 80 Lakmé beauty institutes and train more aspiring makeup stylists to become professionals in the beauty segment. The brand offers a highly sustainable, profitable franchise model for people interested in starting a beauty retail business.

Jawed Habib Hair and Beauty  

Jawed Habib is one of the most popular hair and beauty salon chains in India, offering a wide range of premium hair and beauty self-care services across various locations. The brand has opened more than 900 salons and has a strong reputation in the hair and beauty segment. Entrepreneurs looking to invest in this brand need a smaller upfront investment for a nominal area of space and can receive complete support in training and operations. It has also opened around 45 institutes, either owned or franchised, with course durations ranging from one week to six months, and, in some cases, to longer periods, covering specialized aspects of hairdressing and beauty. 

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Shahnaz Husain Salon

The Shahnaz Husain Group is iconic for its herbal and ayurvedic offerings, which include natural beauty and anti-ageing treatments. Shahnaz Husain is known as one of the most successful women entrepreneurs and has trained many beauticians at her beauty training academy. The brand operates a chain of over 200 beauty centers in India and abroad. If one is looking for a franchise opportunity with this group in the herbal beauty salon and the International Beauty Training space, Shahnaz Husain is the right choice. It also has a superior product line, with a 30 percent to 40 percent profit margin.

Nykaa

Nykaa is one of the popular eCommerce platforms for beauty and lifestyle products, operating around 237 physical stores across 79 cities in India, and offers franchise opportunities for entrepreneurs. It offers different franchise models depending on location and size. Entrepreneurs can apply by submitting a business profile to Nykaa’s partnership team, and the company provides support, including operational assistance, training, and marketing. Falguni Nayar’s vision turned Nykaa into one of India’s largest online beauty retailers and made her one of the country's wealthiest self-made women. For any woman entrepreneur, success is inspiring and motivating. 

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Sugar Cosmetics

Sugar Cosmetics, founded by Vineeta Singh and Kaushik Mukherjee, is a prominent Indian D2C cosmetics brand known for its high-performance, cruelty-free, and vegan products formulated to suit Indian skin tones. It has built a cult following among Gen Z and millennials through its bold branding, distinct packaging, and aggressive omnichannel retail strategy that combines its online platform with a strong offline presence across India. The brand operates around 200 own-brand stores in India, with a total offline presence in over 45,000 retail outlets in more than 550 cities. With a vast count of outlets across India and growing rapidly, Sugar’s franchise opportunity is perfect for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the booming premium beauty segment. With this brand, you can expect extensive support, including marketing materials, promotional campaigns, and training to ensure smooth operations and effective sales.

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Mamaearth

Mamaearth is an Indian brand of natural, toxin-free personal care products, initially focused on baby care but expanded to include products for men and women, including skincare, hair care, and baby care items. Mamaearth emphasizes natural ingredients and is known for its direct-to-consumer (D2C) model and strong digital marketing, though it also has a retail presence. The brand operates more than 1000 stores in India; franchising with Mamaearth in India is a significant investment that requires careful consideration of several factors. The total cost can vary significantly based on location, store size, and design. If one is investing in this brand, she can get full training, marketing, and supply chain support.

If you want to start your own business, study these brands first, and also look for more. These brands help you get customers, offer training, and simplify finance. Find the best salon and skincare franchise in India, choose a location, compare costs, service quality, and payback, and connect with its existing owners. Women entrepreneurs thrive with the right franchise support and proven brand appeal.

FAQs

Which is the best salon franchise in India for women entrepreneurs?  

However, there is no such thing as one brand that is the best salon franchise; there are many, including Lakmé, Shahnaz Husain, Habib, Naturals Salon, and many more, but still Naturals Salon leads the way for women. Naturals backs new female owners, supports training, and offers clear systems. More than 80% of Naturals outlets are run by women, as it allows flexibility and community support.

Are beauty and skincare franchises profitable in India?  

Yes, franchising into the beauty and skincare segment is profitable, as the brands help in getting high profit; ROI averages from 36 percent to 55 percent. The brand will also help in recovering investment in 2-3 years, and it will offer quality, modern branding, and efficient service systems that improve profit.

Why are salon and skincare franchises ideal for women entrepreneurs?  

As in these segments, brands provide the investors with full operational help, strong network support, proven models, and training that covers both technical and business sides. The beauty industry also gives flexible work hours so that work-life balance is maintained.

How to choose the right beauty and skincare franchise brand?  

There are a few of things to consider while choosing the right brand and they are 

• Look at total investment and expected profit.  
• Check brand strength and customer reviews.  
• Assess training and support.  
• Match your market and clientele to the brand’s offer.  
• Test location; see nearby competition.  
• Talk to current franchisees for tips.

What are the emerging trends in India’s beauty franchise sector?  

Nowadays, the concept of unisex salons is expanding in Tier I, II, and III cities that also offer digital bookings, app-based management, and social media marketing to drive growth.