Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ian Ritchie, Co-founder of R&D International Foods Corp, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Our business is primarily the wholesale and distribution of seafood products with a major focus on Crustaceans. Our customers range from Major distributors to high-end Restaurants that focus on unique and high-quality products that are hard to find.

Tell us about yourself

I originally began working in the finance industry. I kinda fell into the space rather than pursuing it. This is why I left the industry in 2012, completed my MBA at Rotman in 2015, and then pursued a career in the Foodservice and retail industry. An industry that is better aligned with my interests and skill sets.

In terms of what motivates me every day are the satisfaction of sourcing, selling, and distributing food that people love and with others. Food brings joy to so many people, and I love being a part of that journey.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Creating a company that is profitable, growing, and constantly pushing into new categories.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

The highs and lows. One week you're on top of the world, and the next week everything can seem unmanageable. Fortunately, over time (and a lot of hard work), the peaks and valleys become less severe and more manageable. If you're lucky, you are able to create a sustainable company that has the ability to grow.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Stay focused.
  2. Don't be afraid to pivot if you have to.
  3. Know when a strategy/tactic/product has failed.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Do what you love to do instead of what you think will lead to riches. If you love what you do, riches will follow in one way or another.

Where can people find you and your business?

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-j-ritchie-23498448/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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