Franchise brands and retail chain stores expand across cities and states, and maintaining consistency, compliance, and consumer trust becomes a top priority. This is where legal metrology compliance plays a critical role. Under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, businesses are required to follow strict rules for labelling, packaging, and accurate measurement of products to protect consumer rights and ensure fair trade practices. For franchise and chain stores, failing to comply can result in severe penalties, product seizures, and even a loss of reputation.
What is Legal Metrology For Franchise Brands And Chain Stores Compliance?
When distributing pre-packaged goods across numerous locations, franchise brands and chain stores must adhere to the packaging, labelling, and measuring guidelines established by the Legal Metrology Act, 2009. Think at it this way: if your franchise or retail chain offers packaged and branded goods like electronics, food items, and cosmetics. In accordance with Legal Metrology regulations, you should confirm that the product displays the accurate weight, price, MRP, expiration date, manufacturer information, and other facts. This compliance ensures
- All your products are honestly measured and labelled
- Customers are not misled or overcharged
- The business avoids legal penalties or product seizures
Why Is Legal Metrology Important For Franchise Stores And Retail Chains?
Legal metrology for franchise brands and large retail chains compliance is very important for and large retail chains because it ensures uniformity, trust, and legal safety across all their outlets. When products are sold in multiple locations, they should follow the same packaging, labelling, and weight/measurement rules as per the Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities Rules, 2011.
- Standardisation Across All Stores
- Proper Labelling of Pre-Packaged Goods
- Consumer Protection & Brand Trust
- Avoid Penalties and Legal Action
Do Franchise Outlets Need Separate Legal Metrology Registration?
Yes, in many cases, franchise outlets may need separate legal metrology registration, depending on their specific activities and role in the supply chain.
- The franchise only sells pre-packaged goods from the parent brand
- Franchise packs or re-labels goods at local outlets
- Franchise Uses Weighing Machines or Measuring Devices
Legal Metrology Requirements For Pre-Packaged Commodities in Chain Stores
Chain stores that sell pre-packaged goods should comply with the Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities Rules, 2011.
| S.No. | Requirement | What It Means | Who Should Comply |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | LMPC Registration | A chain store should register as a packer/importer if it packs or imports goods | A chain/franchise that packs goods locally |
| 2. | Mandatory Declarations On Label | Each package should clearly show MRP, net quantity, pack date, customer care, etc | All products are sold in packaged form |
| 3. | Standard Units | Quantity should be declared in SI units | All chain stores |
| 4. | Maximum Retail Price | The price printed must be final; stores cannot charge above the MRP | Chain/franchise outlet |
| 5. | Name & Address of Manufacturer/Packer | Full details of the company packaging or manufacturing the goods | Chain packaging unit or vendor |
| 6. | Consumer Care Details | Should mention the phone number/email for complaints | Required for all packaged |
| 7. | Date of Packaging/Import | The date when the product was packed or imported should be printed | For all products |
| 8. | Best Before | Must be printed on perishable or regulated items | Follow FSSAI/CDSCO rules |
| 9. | Verification of Weighing Instrument | All weighing machines used must be verified and stamped yearly | Each store using weight/measures |
| 10. | Display of Packaged Product Details | Packed products must be displayed without misleading or missing info | Store display and stock shelves |
| 11. | Updated Labels After Price Changes | Revised label needs in case of price revision due to tax or rule changes | Chain/franchise office or outlet |
Who Is Responsible For Legal Metrology Compliance In A Franchise Model?
In a franchise model, the responsibility for legal metrology for franchise brands’ compliance depends on how the business operations are structured.
- Franchisor (Main Brand Owner) – If the franchisor manufactures, imports, or packages the products and supplies them to franchise outlets, then they must ensure that all legal metrology rules are followed.
- Franchise (Local Store Operator) – If the franchise is repackaging, relabeling, or using weighing instruments at the outlet, then they must also comply by registering as a packer or dealer and getting their weights and measures verified.
How To Apply For Legal Metrology Registration For Franchise Brands and Chain Stores?
Applying for legal metrology for franchise brands and chain stores involves a few simple steps:
Identify The Type of Registration Needed
- Packer/Importer Registration
- Dealer License
- Manufacturer License
Prepare Required Documents
- Business Registration
- Premises Proof
- Identity Proof of Owner
Visit the State Legal Metrology Portal or the Office
- Apply online through the legal metrology department of your state
- Submit the document offline to the controller of legal metrology
Fill Out Application Form
- Mention the business type
- Upload or attach all required documents
- Pay the official government Fees
Inspection
- Authorities may visit your premises to verify details
Get Certificate Of Registration
- In the end, if it is approved, you will receive your legal metrology registration certificate.
What Are the Penalties For Non-Compliance with Legal Metrology for Franchise Brands & Chains?
Check the table to know the penalties for non-compliance with Legal Metrology for Franchise brands & chain stores:
| S.No. | Types of Non-Compliance | Penalty or Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Missing or wrong declarations on the product label | Fine of 2,000 for the first offences, higher for repeat offences |
| 2. | Selling products without legal metrology registration | Fine up to 25,000 or imprisonment up to 6 months or both |
| 3. | Using non-verified weighing machines | Fine of 2,000 to 5,000 |
| 4. | Deceptive packaging | Product seizure + Fine up to 1 lakh or jail in serious cases |
| 5. | Selling imported goods without an LMPC certificate | Customs clearance denied + penalty imposed |
How Can ELT Corporate Help Franchise Brands With Legal Metrology Compliance?
We understand that running a franchise brand or retail chain is a big responsibility, with LM rules. It can sometimes feel like too much to manage. At ELT Corporate, we don’t just offer services, we provide peace of mind. Even if it’s getting legal metrology registration, assuring your product labels have all the right details with LMPC certificates, our team is here to support you. We take care of all your legal department, so you can focus on what matters.
- Expert Guidance
- Full Support with Document & Application
- Support Across India
- Packaging & Label Checks
If you need any help or you’re stuck in the process, you can connect with us by calling 9718437205 or writing an email to info@legalmetrologyindia.com.
Do All Franchise Outlets Need Legal Metrology Registration?
No, only those outlets involved in packaging, relabeling, or using weighing machines need to register separately.
What Happens If A Chain Store Sells Goods Without Legal Metrology Compliance?
If a chain store sells goods without legal metrology compliance, then they will face huge fines, product seizure, or even legal action under the Legal Metrology Act.
