Cascumpec Bay Oyster Company

Cascumpec Bay Oyster Company is based in scenic Coleman, Prince Edward Island. Owned by Martin O’Brien, the farm and processing plant grows oysters for 3-4 years at a time in and around Cascumpec Bay. Access to salt water flow from the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the earthy influence of local peat moss give these oysters the unique taste that’s made them in demand all across Canada and the United States. As the business continues to grow, O’Brien has an aim of soon breaking into the European market too. 

Cascumpec Bay Oyster Co. has been a chamber member since day one, and has participated in the annual courses they facilitate to help their business and form connections within their community. 

The chamber has given Martin a lot of confidence by providing support to their members and being an advocate for the local business community. This includes ensuring all programs and resources are easily accessible, which has been especially important over the past few years, as the region has endured the COVID-19 pandemic and a category 4 hurricane that caused huge damage across Prince Edward Island.  

“[They've] been instrumental in bringing awareness to all the resources, especially during COVID and Hurricane Fiona," O’Brien said. “If we aren’t getting our fair share as a business owner, or if we have a concern in our area, we have a voice and we will be heard, and that is critical.” 

At its core, this is a family business, with Martin’s sister managing the company alongside him. Their shared passion has allowed the company to thrive, while focusing on growing and packing oysters of the finest quality in a safe and sustainable way.  

Community support is also key in a smaller region like Coleman, and networking events programmed by the local chamber have helped to create a spirit of collaboration among the local business community. This has helped to foster an environment where businesses boost each other up rather than tear each other down.  

Martin recommends that fellow business owners join their local chamber to gain access to their system of support, networking and marketing opportunities, resources for business development, and exclusive benefits and deals. 

“The chamber has been a great voice for us,” O’Brien said. “It is nice to know someone is working in our interest. Get a membership and take advantage of the perks and go to the networking events. You would be surprised with how much business you can get through the events.”