Cape Breton’s Larch Wood Enterprises: Growing to meet global demand

(Each product is uniquely and carefully crafted into a piece of functional art. Credit: Larch Wood Enterprises)

A Cape Breton success story

Located in Margaree, Cape Breton, Larch Wood Enterprises manufactures wooden end-grain cutting boards, countertops, and flooring for markets in Canada and around the world. 

Looking to increase production and minimize environmental impact at their manufacturing facility, the company recently participated in the Innovation Rebate Program (IRP) to fund operational upgrades. 

With improved production efficiency and sustainability, the upgrades are expected to optimize production and inventory management by expanding lumber drying and storage. This, in turn, enables improvements and automation in the production process. 

Further, Larch Wood expects to significantly reduce their waste stream by developing new products from their production waste and using energy from both solar and waste to minimize environmental impact.

Having also received funding from ACOA's Rural Economic Growth Innovation program (REGI), Larch Wood recently purchased advanced sanding equipment, and is building a new manufacturing facility, while expanding its current one.  

Larch Wood is a true Cape Breton success story born from passion, craftsmanship, and dedication. What started as a small group of skilled woodworkers has grown into a thriving business with global demand. This support ensures the company no longer has to turn down its growing number of orders, allowing it to take advantage of new opportunities.

Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton-Canso

The company employs 25 people and exports over 50% of its products to North America, Europe, and Asia. It also operates three retail locations in Nova Scotia.

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[Credit: Larch Wood Enterprises]

We started selling there (Japan) in 2024. The demand for our products in Asia is significant. The customers we work with in South Korea, they have an insatiable appetite for the product.

Liam O’Rourke, Larch Wood General Manager

Product Evolution

Larch Wood, founded in 2003 by a group of woodworkers, began in a 1,400-square-foot East Margaree building, initially specializing in wooden flooring.  After two years, recognizing the need for diversification, they expanded their product line to include durable end-grain cutting boards, refined through chef feedback. 

In 2012, the company further expanded, entering the countertop market for both residential and commercial use, sourcing all wood from sustainably harvested, local small growers.

Fun Fact
One of the most frequently asked questions at Larch Wood is why the cutting boards have feet. The soft rubber feet lift the board to prevent moisture damage, prevent slipping, are crucial for safe knife work, and allow the board to be picked up and moved easily.

Additional products include a complete assortment of professional end grain cutting boards, chopping blocks, cheese boards, food and sushi presentation boards plus a new selection of handcrafted Japanese chef’s knives and kitchen knives.

Watch Eastlink's Maritime Made for an inside look at Larch Wood's production process: 

Why larch wood? 

Canadian larch, known locally as tamarack and juniper, thrives in Cape Breton. This fast-growing, resilient species tolerates challenging conditions, including wet or disturbed soil. The antimicrobial and rot-resistant qualities of the wood, particularly juniper, make it ideal for kitchen cutting boards, countertops, and chopping blocks.

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[All of Larch Wood boards and custom pieces are end-grain. Credit: Larch Wood Enterprises]

Could your business be Nova Scotia’s next #ThinkExport success story? Reach out to the Regional Business Advisor nearest you.