Lawrence Krimker’s journey from modest beginnings to entrepreneurial success is a compelling testament to the power of resilience, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth. Born in a working-class neighborhood in Toronto, Lawrence had no financial safety net or family business to rely on. Instead, he built his success from the ground up, driven by a relentless work ethic and a sharp eye for market opportunities. His story illustrates how determination and creativity can turn challenges into stepping stones, ultimately leading to the creation of a business empire with over $2B in assets. Today, Lawrence is recognized not only for his financial achievements but also for his contributions to promoting sustainable business practices and giving back to the community. His journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and established business leaders alike.
Lawrence’s entrepreneurial spark ignited at the age of 14 when he launched his first business, a local directory for home improvement services. This venture was more than just a teenage side hustle; it was a practical introduction to the fundamentals of business management. Handling every aspect of the business himself — from cold-calling potential clients to designing and distributing the directories — Lawrence learned the importance of market research, customer service, and financial discipline. These early experiences taught him the value of building strong customer relationships and the need for adaptability in the face of challenges. By the time Lawrence Krimker reached high school, Lawrence had developed a keen understanding of business dynamics that set him apart from his peers. His drive to succeed was evident even then, as he balanced his studies with the demands of running a growing business. This early venture laid a solid foundation for his future entrepreneurial endeavors, instilling in him the confidence to take on increasingly ambitious projects.
Lawrence’s passion for entrepreneurship continued to flourish as he pursued his education at the Schulich School of Business. There, he built a new business venture offering window cleaning services. This not only helped him finance his education but also provided employment opportunities for 80 fellow students. The experience of balancing rigorous academic demands with the responsibilities of running a business honed his time management and leadership skills. At Schulich, Lawrence learned to apply academic theories to real-world challenges, reinforcing his belief in the importance of hands-on experience. His ability to successfully manage multiple ventures during this time was a testament to his exceptional organizational skills and his deep commitment to his entrepreneurial aspirations. These experiences also helped Lawrence build a network of like-minded individuals and mentors who would later play crucial roles in his business endeavors.
After graduating, in 2010, Lawrence co-founded payment fintech company Paystack, a start-up that was accepted into the prestigious accelerator program Y-Combinator. He moved to Silicon Valley to develop the company for 18 months before selling Paystack’s technology and returning home to Toronto. His next endeavour was another significant leap forward, when he founded Simply Green, a company focused on providing eco-friendly home improvement solutions. Recognizing the growing consumer interest in sustainability, Lawrence positioned the company — which soon grew into Simply Group — as a leader in the green technology sector. His vision extended beyond simply offering environmentally friendly products; he aimed to educate consumers on the long-term benefits of sustainable living. Under his leadership, the company grew rapidly, thanks to strategic acquisitions, innovative product offerings, and a steadfast commitment to customer service. Lawrence’s approach involved meticulous market research and aggressive expansion strategies, allowing the company to rapidly increase its market share. In 2015, Lawrence and his team began acquiring competitors. By 2020, the company had completed more than $500M in acquisitions and had grown to 200,000 customers with over $2B in assets. Lawrence’s ability to anticipate market trends and adapt to changing consumer demands was key to the company’s success, solidifying his reputation as a forward-thinking business leader.
At the core of Lawrence’s success is his belief that effort and time are the key ingredients for achieving lasting results. His philosophy — Effort + Time = Results — has guided him through every stage of his career. Lawrence emphasizes the importance of long-term planning and strategic thinking, understanding that true success comes from persistence and patience rather than quick wins. He is also a strong advocate for ethical business practices and responsible leadership, which he believes are essential for sustainable success. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement and empowering his team to take initiative, Lawrence has built businesses that are not only profitable but also resilient in the face of challenges. His approach has inspired many within his organization and beyond, serving as a model for how to build a business that thrives over the long term.
Lawrence Krimker’s journey from a self-made entrepreneur to a respected business leader is a powerful example of what can be achieved through determination, strategic thinking, and a commitment to core values. His story offers invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrating that success is not just about financial achievement but also about making a positive impact on the community and the world. Lawrence’s legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and giving back, providing a blueprint for others to follow in the pursuit of their own entrepreneurial dreams. His ongoing contributions to sustainable business practices and community development continue to inspire those who seek to make a difference.
