From handmade clay earrings in PEI to locally made hoodies, lobster-themed streetwear, and gourmet dog treats, the East Coast is full of creative entrepreneurs doing big things in small towns. Whether you’re shopping local or planning a trip, here are 10 small businesses in Atlantic Canada that are worth checking out and supporting.
1. Charlie’s Bakeshop – Cape Breton, NS
If you’re traveling with a pup, don’t miss Charlie’s Bakeshop in Cape Breton. This local brand creates handcrafted dog treats using simple, wholesome ingredients, including adorable PEI lobster claw cookies for dogs. Bonus: they also carry birthday boxes and seasonal goodies. It’s a must-follow for dog parents on the East Coast.
📍Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
🐶 @charlies_bakeshop
2. Covered Bridge Chips – Hartland, NB
These kettle-cooked chips are made in New Brunswick using locally sourced potatoes and cooked in small batches. Known for their signature crunch and unique flavours like Storm Chips and Sweet Potato, Covered Bridge has become a staple in East Coast pantries—and road trip snack bags.
📍Hartland, New Brunswick
🥔 coveredbridgechips.com
3. COWS Chocolate-Covered Chips – PEI
Everyone knows COWS for their iconic ice cream, but their chocolate-covered potato chips are the real hidden gem. Salty, sweet, and dangerously addictive, they’re made on the Island and shipped across Canada.
📍Prince Edward Island
🍫 cows.ca
4. Newfoundland Chocolate Company – NL
Founded in St. John’s, the Newfoundland Chocolate Company crafts artisanal chocolates using local ingredients and unique fillings. Known for their award-winning quality and coastal-inspired packaging, they’re a sweet way to bring home a taste of the Rock.
📍St. John’s, Newfoundland
🍫 newfoundlandchocolatecompany.com
5. Lobster Mafia Apparel – NS
Born from the fishing culture of Cape Breton, Lobster Mafia combines maritime grit with streetwear style. Their bold tees, hoodies, and hats often feature lobsters, boats, and East Coast slang—perfect for anyone who loves life on the water.
📍Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
🦞 lobstermafiaapparel.com
6. Cabot Clothing Company – Cape Breton, NS
Inspired by coastal living, Cabot Clothing Company offers premium, East Coast–inspired clothing and accessories. Think high-quality sweatshirts, trucker hats, and soft neutral tones that work year-round.
📍Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
👕 @cabotclothingcompany
7. Jewelry by A La Mer – PEI
Looking for locally curated jewelry with a coastal feel? A La Mer creates beautiful, ocean-inspired pieces right in Stanhope, Prince Edward Island. From dainty everyday styles to bold statement pieces, each item is thoughtfully designed. It’s the perfect way to carry a piece of the Island with you.
📍Stanhope, Prince Edward Island
💫 @alamerpei
8. Wag Worthy Treats – PEI & NS
These premium dog treats made from wild Atlantic oysters and scallops are 100% natural and sourced from local fisheries. Wag Worthy is gaining attention across Canada for their sustainable, healthy snacks that dogs absolutely love.
📍PEI & Nova Scotia
🐾 wagworthytreats.com
9. Quidi Vidi Brewery – St. John’s, NL
One of Newfoundland’s best-known microbreweries, Quidi Vidi Brewery is located in a historic fishing village just outside St. John’s. They’re known for creative brews like Iceberg Beer, made with 25,000-year-old iceberg water, and a lively taproom with ocean views.
📍St. John’s, Newfoundland
🍻 quidividibrewery.ca
10. Lilian Company – Cape Breton, NS
Lilian Company creates hand-poured soy candles that capture the cozy, calming vibe of life in Cape Breton. With thoughtfully blended scents and minimal, coastal-inspired packaging, these candles are perfect for gifting—or keeping for yourself on slow, peaceful days.
📍Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
🕯️ @liliancompany
Why Shop Local in Atlantic Canada?
Shopping small isn’t just about finding unique, high-quality products, it’s about supporting the people and communities that make the East Coast so special. Whether you’re here for the summer or live here year-round, these businesses represent the heart and hustle of Atlantic Canada.
Article by Kaley Langille
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