Mistakes Built This 2,700-Store Brand - Guelph - Canada's Entrepreneur

"It's okay to make a mistake as long as you're learning from it. I think the idea of waiting for things to be perfect is an illusion, it doesn't happen."

Khalil Khamis, who is based in Guelph, has been instrumental in shaping Crafty Ramen’s growth since joining in 2018 and becoming CEO in 2021. Under his leadership, the company has evolved from a local ramen shop into a nationally recognized food brand, expanding its chef-crafted frozen ramen line to make restaurant-quality meals accessible in homes across Canada. Today, Crafty Ramen products are available in more than 2,700 retail locations, with continued expansion into new regions alongside its existing restaurant presence in Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph.

During this period of growth, the company has received multiple accolades, including Canada’s Top Growing Companies (2022, 2023), FoundersBeta’s Top Companies to Watch (2024, 2025), the Guelph Chamber of Commerce Innovation Award, and recognition from Sobeys, Loblaws, and the Retail Council of Canada.

Beyond business, Khalil is deeply engaged in his community. He is the past Chair of The Foundation of Guelph General Hospital and serves on the advisory board of the University of Guelph’s J.F. Wood Centre. He was recently awarded the Frank Hasenfratz Award of Excellence for his leadership and entrepreneurial impact.

He remains focused on successfully scaling Crafty Ramen into the US market while staying true to its roots in craft, community, and creativity.

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