Community Profile: Meet Levi Hetrick
As part of our ongoing 55th Anniversary spotlight, we’re proud to feature another voice behind the progress, Levi Hetrick—the Chief Growth Officer for Krispy Kreme Doughnuts in Canada, part-owner of the Bloor West Village Krispy Kreme shop, and a Director on the Bloor West Village BIA board. He brings both a global perspective and local passion to his role in shaping the future of the area. For Levi, Bloor West Village isn’t just a neighbourhood—it’s a living, evolving community he’s proud to call home.
A Unique Blend of Urban and Suburban Life
“What makes Bloor West Village special is the balance,” says Levi. “You get the benefits of urban life—great transit, connectedness to the rest of the city—combined with a suburban feel: nature, walkable streets, a real sense of community.” That combination, he explains, attracts a rich mix of residents—from first-time Canadians to long-time locals and young families looking to put down roots.
Invested in Growth—and in People
Having worked across the world with McKinsey & Company and now leading national expansion at Krispy Kreme, Levi understands growth. But for him, growth isn’t just about numbers. “It’s about measured, meaningful expansion. At Krispy Kreme, we’re not a brand that’s trying to be on every corner. We’re a sweet treat—something special. Our business thrives in vibrant urban centers with strong communities, which is why Bloor West Village is such a natural fit.”
Levi oversees where and when new Krispy Kreme locations open in Canada, choosing cities and formats that align with the brand’s promise of “made fresh daily.” This role requires not only strategic insight but also a profound understanding of the communities he serves. “The consulting toolkit helps,” he says with a smile, “but at the end of the day, it’s about knowing the people.”
Committed to Community
That mindset carries into his work on the BIA board. As one of the newer members, Levi says the experience has been eye-opening. “I’ve learned so much—from how local government functions, to the priorities and challenges of small business owners in our area. It’s been fascinating to connect with the councillor’s office and understand what really drives community engagement.”
He believes the BIA plays a critical role in fostering a vibrant, active local environment. “It’s about increasing input—from businesses, residents, and the broader community. That’s how we build the kind of place people want to be a part of. A place where storefronts are full, events are happening, and neighbours know one another.”
Celebrating 55 Years of Bloor West Village
As the BIA marks its 55th anniversary, Levi sees it as a moment for reflection. “This year is really about honouring our history—getting to know the long-standing businesses that have shaped this neighbourhood, like Cecil Ward & Sons, which has been around for over a century. It’s about celebrating the people and places that have made Bloor West what it is today.”
Advice for New Businesses
For entrepreneurs entering the area, Levi offers simple advice: get involved. “Reach out to the BIA. Get to know the locals, the other business owners, the small communities within the neighbourhood. That connection is key. Every business operates differently depending on the industry, but one thing holds true: you have to integrate with the community to thrive.”
Sweet Treats and Local Love
When he’s not strategizing growth or attending board meetings, you’ll find Levi fully immersed in the vibrant life of Bloor West – volunteering with the local Scouts, biking down to High Park with his children, or sharing his personal favourite Krispy Kreme picks (the original glazed is a classic, but he’s also partial to the chocolate cake or apple fritters when you can get them).
He’s also a big believer in employing local. “Hiring people from the neighbourhood makes such a difference. It’s part of how businesses become part of the fabric of the community.”
In every role he plays—from corporate executive to community board member to local resident—Levi Hetrick is focused on one thing: helping Bloor West Village grow, sustainably and together.
📍 Visit Krispy Kreme at 2277 Bloor St W for a sweet taste of community! 🍩
Keep following along as we continue to celebrate the people shaping the heart and soul of Bloor West Village.
