Shelby’s, the Ontario-founded shawarma chain, is opening its first Western Canada restaurant in Calgary on Sunday, October 25, marking an expansion beyond its home base of more than 50 locations across Canada.
The new restaurant, at 9110 Macleod Trail SE, will open from noon to 9 p.m. with a community celebration that includes a face painter, live caricature artists, games and prizes. Admission is free.
Opening Day Promotions
The first 100 customers will receive a free Shawarma Boutine, described as the chain’s signature dish of fries topped with chicken, garlic sauce, boutine sauce, chipotle sauce and feta cheese. The chain is also offering 50% off all wraps, bowls and signature menu items for the full day, valid in-store only while supplies last.
From a Food Trailer to a National Chain
Shelby’s was founded in 2015 by Yazan El-Shalabi and Yasser Ali, who began selling shawarma from a food trailer in Lambeth, Ontario. The company has since grown to more than 50 locations across Canada, with over 8 million social media followers and partnerships with Toronto FC and the Toronto Maple Leafs.
El-Shalabi said Calgary had been a long-standing target for expansion, citing requests from Alberta customers over several years. The company said Calgary represents its first location in Alberta and its first in Western Canada, and that it plans to continue expanding across the province in the coming years, with the potential for the new locations to create jobs in Alberta.
Community-Focused Launch Strategy
Shelby’s said community engagement has been a consistent part of its approach when entering new markets. The company’s 50th store opening, in Brantford, Ontario last month, included a free community festival and 100 donated meals for staff at Brantford General Hospital. For the Calgary opening, the company said it is working with local vendors and artists, including the face painter and caricature artists scheduled to appear on opening day.
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