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As the appetite for online food delivery continues to soar, a new wave of entrepreneurs is finding success not in restaurants, but in cloud kitchens, delivery-only setups that rely on platforms like Zomato to reach customers. The concept has rapidly evolved into a high-demand business model, offering a lucrative opportunity for those seeking financial independence without stepping away from home. (AI-Generated) Industry experts say the cloud kitchen market in India has witnessed exponential growth in recent years, driven by convenience, affordability, and changing dining habits. Entrepreneurs, even with limited resources, can now tap into this booming market and potentially earn up to Rs 50,000 per month. (AI-Generated) The first step is to register as a partner on the Zomato portal. On the website, prospective business owners can select the option to “Register Your Restaurant”, a process that applies equally to cloud kitchens. Applicants must fill in details such as name, business email, contact number, kitchen name, city, and address. Once submitted, Zomato initiates a verification process via email or phone. (AI-Generated) The second phase involves documentation. Every food business in India must obtain an FSSAI licence, which can be applied for online. Those with an annual turnover exceeding Rs 40 lakh are also required to register for GST. Additionally, a Shop and Establishment Licence, a PAN card, a cancelled cheque or bank passbook, and a valid ID proof such as Aadhaar or voter ID are mandatory for verification. (AI-Generated) Once the backend is in place, the focus shifts to the menu, the heart of the business. Experts recommend keeping dish names creative and appealing. Instead of a plain “Cheese Sandwich”, titles like “Grilled Cheese Delight” are more likely to catch the customer’s eye. Professional, high-quality food images are essential, as listings with attractive visuals receive more clicks and conversions. (AI-Generated) Competitive pricing also plays a crucial role. Study nearby cloud kitchens to determine suitable rates, and consider combo meals or introductory discounts to attract early customers. Special offers for first-time buyers often lead to repeat orders. (AI-Generated) Zomato operates on a tiered commission system. The Basic Plan charges between 10-15%, while the Standard Plan (18-25%) offers promotional features. The Premium Plan, at 25-30%, ensures better visibility, higher ranking, and enhanced marketing support, a worthwhile investment for those aiming to scale quickly. (AI-Generated) Once all documents are submitted, verification typically takes 5-7 days. After approval, the kitchen’s listing goes live, allowing it to start accepting orders. If there’s a delay, the Zomato Partner Support team can be contacted via the online portal. To stand out in the crowded marketplace, owners should optimise listings using SEO-friendly names like “Hyderabadi Chicken Dum Biryani” instead of generic titles. Adding detailed descriptions that highlight flavours, ingredients, and preparation style improves visibility and customer engagement. (AI-Generated) Customer satisfaction directly impacts rankings. Quick delivery, careful packaging, and polite service help maintain a strong reputation. Encouraging satisfied customers to leave positive reviews boosts visibility and repeat orders. Offering free delivery, loyalty discounts, or small complimentary items such as dips or beverages can also enhance customer retention. (AI-Generated)
