Written By: Resham Daswani

Between 2020 and 2025, Zudio, the fast-fashion behemoth from Tata’s Trent Ltd., was the most influential retail brand in India when it came to affordable clothes. Customers in every tier-2 and tier-3 city today rave about Zudio's "fresh fashion, irresistible prices" guarantee, which is accompanied by long waits, packed trial rooms, and collections that sell out in an instant. Investors in India are understandably curious about the same thing: Would it be possible for me to invest in a Zudio franchise?

Investors who perceive Zudio as the next great retail wealth engine are driving the demand for the brand's outlets, which is skyrocketing as we enter 2026.

However, the reality is that Zudio does not provide the standard franchise model.

If you are familiar with the inner workings of the Trent ecosystem, though, you may still take part in the brand's expansion and reap the rewards of its meteoric rise.

In 2026, this blog will explain all the necessary information for investors:

• The business strategy of Zudio 
• The possibility of investors partnering with Trent and how it works 
• Investment standards derived from comparable retail models 
• Anticipated return on investment 

Almost no other clothing brand is doing as well as Zudio. Instead, here's what savvy investors should do

It's time to jump right in.

Why Zudio Is India’s Rapidly Expanding Apparel Retail Model in 2026

Benefiting from Tata's Value Fashion Advantage

In addition to Zudio, Tata Trent runs Westside, Utsa, and Samoh. Trent has created Zudio as a "mass-scale expansion engine" to take over the inexpensive fashion market for the middle class aspirants.

What gives Zudio its incredible power?

• Worldwide fast fashion models inspired by an ultra-rapid supply chain
• Large profit margins due to private label dominance
• Regular return customers result from weekly new collections.
• The optimal price range (from ₹79 to ₹999)
• Stylish but approachable brand positioning
• Great retail traffic in even the most compact urban areas

Zudio established itself as one of India's most rapidly expanding retail chains in 2024–2025, opening 400+ stores. By 2026, experts predict that the company will have expanded to 600+ locations.

The consequence is obvious for investors: When it comes to value-fashion retail, Zudio is the best opportunity India has witnessed in the last ten years.

The Big Question: Will the Zudio Franchise Still Exist in 2026?

Thousands of times per month, investors look for:

• "The Zudio brand"
• "The cost of a Zudio franchise"
• “How can I acquire my Zudio store?”
• "How lucrative is the Zudio franchise?"

The truth, though, is this:

The franchise-owned franchise-operated (FOFO) model and franchises are not available at Zudio.

The Zudio stores are run by Trent through:

• Partnerships with property owners for long-term leases 
• Company-owned, company-operated (COCO)

What this implies is:

• As opposed to Domino's, Kalyan Jewellers, or Jumboking, a Zudio franchise cannot be purchased outright. 
• However, one can indirectly become a partner by investing in development clusters funded by Trent or holding retail real estate that meets the criteria for a Zudio store.

For those seeking steady profits on large-format retail investments, this alternative partnership model is gaining popularity.

Then What Gives the "Zudio Franchise" Its Persistence in the Investor Market?

Zudio provides the features that all investors desire:

Consistent demand, abundant inventory turnover, high volume of daily visitors 

Reliable Tata brand 

Demonstrated achievement in niche areas 

High profitability in running outlets

As a result, people think Zudio is a brand that is ready to be franchised, since it meets all the criteria for an ideal retail franchise with the exception of its ownership structure.

What Investors Need to Know About Zudio's Growth Strategy for 2026

Investors can position themselves effectively by understanding Trent's expansion strategy.

Expanding into Tier-2, Tier-3, and Tier-4 Cities

Already cities such as Bhilai, Surat, Indore, Guntur, Mysuru, Guwahati, Raipur, Patna, and Zudio have proven that they can become the go-to destination for fashion.

Trent plans to maintain its ambitious expansion in 2026.

• Local marketplaces
• Expanding urban neighbourhoods
• Close-knit residential marketplaces
• Complexes in developing cites

Investors that possess strategically important assets in these markets stand to gain a great deal.

Assuming the Zudio franchise is unavailable in 2026, how will investors make a profit?

Instead of giving up, astute investors are changing tactics.

In order to profit from Zudio's growth without actually owning the franchise, the following investment opportunities stand out:

1. Working in Partnership with Developers Retail Projects Anchored on Zudio

Zudio is becoming an anchor tenant for more and more builders due to the following reasons:

• Brings more attention to the project
• Draws in additional renters
• The whole rental value is increased.
• Early adopters of such developments can purchase commercial units, securing:
• Save money per square foot.

An increase in rental income when Zudio starts operations in the area

Although the returns on this venture are typically higher than those on franchise investments, it is still a property + retail play.

1. Making Investments in Other Fast-Expanding Clothing Franchises

In 2026, these formats have great promise for fashion franchises:

• Reliance’s Yousta
• Trends By Reliance
• Biba
• W For Women
• Landmark’s Max Fashion

Comparative Analysis: How Much Would a Zudio Franchise Typically Cost?

Zudio does not provide franchises, however we can make predictions based on comparable Indian store formats:

• Zudio would have to invest more than ₹2 crore in premium retail if they ever launched a franchising model.
• Since the majority of potential Zudio franchise investors are looking for a deal between ₹30 lakh and ₹60 lakh, more practical options such as Yousta, Max, or Style Union emerge.

Warning: 2026 "Fake Zudio Franchise Offers" to Stay Away From

Due to the enormous demand, there are a lot of unofficial consultants and websites offering what they call "Zudio franchise packages."

The truth is this:

• There are no franchise brokers that Trent has ever authorised.
• Franchise fees are nonexistent.
• Any vendor claiming to have one is being deceitful.

Only official Trent communication channels should be trusted by investors.

What Comes Next: Will Zudio Have a Franchise Model By 2026 Or Later?

Zudio, according to retail analysts, will keep growing using the COCO model, which provides Trent with:

• Total command over costs
• Regular excellence
• Adapting quickly to new trends
• Making the most of the supply chain

Trent probably won't launch their franchise in 2026 unless there's a dramatic shift in the market.

But property-based collaborations are on the rise, which means more chances for investors who fit the brand's profile.

Conclusion: Would 2026 Be a Good Year to Invest in a Zudio Franchise?

Regarding your inquiry:

• How much is a Zudio franchise? Absolutely not.
• However, if you have a question about:
• "Will Zudio's expansion be profitable for me?" → Sure thing.

Top strategies for 2026 investors:

• Rent out business space to Trent 
• Put money into projects supported by Zudio 
• Look into different fashion franchises using FOFO models 

Thus, using the Zudio success formula as a guide, construct a retail portfolio featuring many brands.

Changing the face of retail in India, Zudio is more than simply a store.

Investors that have a good grasp of the brand's environment from the start will reap the most rewards in the next decade.

In conclusion,

In 2026, value fashion, speed, and scalability will be the defining features of India's retail scene. Right in the middle of all three is Zudio. The brand already offers one of the best indirect investment opportunities in Indian retail, even without a franchise model.

The Zudio wave is just starting, and if you position yourself right now, you can unlock huge wealth over the next five years. This is for investors who think about the big picture.

FAQs

1. In 2026, will Zudio have a franchise available in India?

Neither a franchise nor a pay-as-you-go business model is available at Zudio as of 2026. The COCO (company-owned, company-operated) model is used by all Zudio outlets managed by Trent. Purchasing a Zudio franchise is not an option for investors.

1. How much does a Zudio franchise cost in the year 2026?

There is no set investment or franchise cost for Zudio because the company does not provide franchises. Based on store size and interior requirements, industry benchmarks indicate that the investment, assuming franchising, would range from ₹1.6 to 2.3 crore. However, it is important to note that this is just hypothetical.

1. How big should a Zudio store be?

The ideal retail area for Zudio is between seven thousand and ten thousand square feet, with excellent frontage, parking support, and heavy local foot traffic.

Disclaimer: The brands mentioned in this blog are the recommendations provided by the author. FranchiseBAZAR does not claim to work with these brands / represent them / or are associated with them in any manner. Investors and prospective franchisees are to do their own due diligence before investing in any franchise business at their own risk and discretion. FranchiseBAZAR or its Directors disclaim any liability or risks arising out of any transactions that may take place due to the information provided in this blog.