Outaouais couple offers maple syrup shares

A Wakefield, Que., couple is selling shares of their maple syrup harvest — offering buyers who invest in advance a year’s supply at a discounted price.

Owners Geneviève LeGal-Leblanc and Sean Butler said it has allowed them to increase the number of taps at Ferme et Forêt from 300 to 3,000.

"This is a big jump for us," LeGal-Leblanc said.

They have only just begun harvesting the sap but have already sold half the syrup they expect to produce this season.

"We were blown away, because we didn't expect that kind of response. For us, it was a real pat on the shoulder," LeGal-Leblanc said.

The couple began selling shares in the fall, allowing them to re-invest in their business.

"In the winter, that's when we're buying the bottles and the other equipment we need. So in terms of cash flow on a farm, it just makes a lot of sense," LeGal-Leblanc said.

Those who buy in bulk also get the perk of having the syrup delivered right to their door once sugaring season is over.