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In Port Rexton, Newfoundland, the beloved Two Whales Coffee Shop is more than just a place to grab something to eat and drink. Founded by Sue Asquith and David Ellis in 2009, this community hub in the town of 300, has always been a sustainable social enterprise caring for its environmental footprint, training young people to work in the booming seasonal tourism industry, and hosting all kinds of local events for artists and artisans.
With a vegetarian menu and magnificent garden, all was well until Sue and David decided that after a decade in business, it was time to retire. But they didn’t want their operation to be sold to buyers who didn’t embrace their mission and intention.
Eventually, a team of five women who had worked at the cafe for years and were committed to the same values as Sue and David, stepped up to carry on the Two Whales legacy as worker owners of the Table 8 Co-operative.
Support from the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Co-ops and the Social Enterprise Through Acquisition program was invaluable as the transition from small business to co-operative took place.
Two Whales opened under new ownership in May 2025.
Table 8 Co-operative members (from left to right) are Rebecca Hiscock, Olivia White, Jill White, Penny Vivian-Penney and Carrie Hookey. They are committed to growing this community asset and carrying on its fine traditions.
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