ABOUT US
For 25 years, we have been driven by a deep appreciation for beautiful natural wood materials.
Our Story
From a vision to a market leader, our story of service and family values
Chesapeake Plywood was founded in 2001 by John Emden. With a dream to push the industry forward by providing specialty wood products that others didn’t carry, the idea for Chesapeake was born. Initially operating out of a construction trailer in South Baltimore, John and his first employees worked tirelessly to build a business from the ground up. Over the years, the family-owned business grew into a key player in the industrial and commercial markets, evolving its business model to provide specialty wood and custom wood solutions that fulfill a wide range of business needs across a dozen sectors.
John’s son, Jeff, now leads Chesapeake Plywood with the same passion, grit and determination. Throughout its evolution, Chesapeake’s core has always remained the same: a focus on premium quality, performance products, above-and-beyond services, and a driven team who wakes up everyday wanting to make it easier for customers to build exceptional things. From supplying the Super Bowl halftime show and Presidential Inauguration events to outfitting nationally acclaimed museums, mega-star concert tours, iconic tech office remodels, and luxury homes starting at $10 million — Chesapeake Plywood is the trusted choice when the stakes are high and the standard is non-negotiable.
The Spark
Our Mission
Our mission is simple: deliver top-notch wood product solutions that drive manufacturing success. We strive to set the standard in wood product distribution, serving customers with a vision. By bringing fresh ideas, high quality, and excellent service to everything we do, we aim to be the trusted source for specialty wood products. We partner with our customers, providing solutions that enable them to create extraordinary projects with confidence and ease.
Our Vision
We aim to lead the way in specialty wood products, known for our commitment to quality and innovation. Our plan is to grow intentionally, always rooted in our values, supporting our partners and people along the way. We’re excited to expand across the US and continually find new ways to serve our customers better.
Our Purpose
Beyond making money, our purpose is to move wood products manufacturing forward and make a positive impact on our employees and the customers we serve. This means continuously improving our processes, innovating in our industry, and ensuring that our employees and customers thrive because of our efforts.
Built to Deliver. Proven Over Time.
For over 25 years, Chesapeake has grown by doing the work—investing in inventory, logistics, and systems that keep customers supplied when it matters most. Each milestone reflects a simple focus: show up prepared, solve problems, and deliver without disruption, no matter how the market shifts.
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2001
Founded
Chesapeake Plywood is established with a focus on specialty wood products, built on relationships, responsiveness, and service.
2004
Operational Foundation Expanded
Core business units are formalized, creating the structure to scale inventory, logistics, and customer support.
2006
First International Sourcing
Global supply relationships begin, opening access to a broader range of specialty materials.
2007
Inventory Expansion Begins
The first import containers arrive, marking a shift toward holding deeper inventory to better support customers.
2008
First $1M Year
An early milestone that validated the model and set the foundation for long-term growth.
2014
Baltimore Facility Established
Operations move to the current Biddle Street location, significantly expanding warehousing and operational capacity.
2017
Digital Presence Rebuilt
A new website launches, reflecting a more established brand and improving how customers engage with Chesapeake.
2019
Logistics Control Strengthened
Investment in a dedicated fleet enhances delivery reliability and gives Chesapeake greater control over timelines.
2020-2022
Accelerated Growth
Through market volatility and supply chain disruption, Chesapeake scales rapidly—expanding inventory, deepening supplier relationships, and strengthening its position as a dependable partner.
2023
Systems and Culture Formalized
Internal systems and company values are defined to support consistency, accountability, and long-term scalability.
2024
Brand and Experience Elevated
A full rebrand and facility transformation bring Chesapeake’s identity, environment, and customer experience into alignment with the level of service delivered.
2025
Digital Platform Reimagined
A new website experience launches, positioning Chesapeake as a leading online resource for specialty wood panel solutions.
2026
Systems Aligned for Scale
Chesapeake enters its next chapter with upgraded systems across the business—bringing greater visibility, faster workflows, and stronger coordination across inventory, logistics, and operations. With a 25-year foundation in place, the focus is simple: stay prepared and keep customers supplied as the market evolves.
Setting the standard;
Delivering solutions.
Every day, we make a bet on saying “yes.” Through our extensive wood inventory, innovative logistics business, spirit of ambition, and a service-above-all-else mentality, Chesapeake has become the premium wood supply & solutions partner for visionary makers.
We pride ourselves on being able to deliver on the widest range of industrial and commercial projects, providing you with the most high performing and specialty wood selection, a suite of value-added services from stocking to finishes – and quick turnaround deliveries coast to coast.
Partners
We carry only the highest-quality wood products from the most trusted brands in the industry.
We work exclusively with brands that share our commitment to excellence. Every product we distribute meets the highest standards of quality, performance, and innovation. We’re meticulous about what makes it into our inventory — because your projects deserve nothing less than the best. Your satisfaction isn't just a priority — it's our promise.
Work at Chesapeake
We invest in our people, offering comprehensive benefits, opportunities for growth, and a supportive culture where everyone feels valued.
At Chesapeake, we’re always looking for driven individuals who want to grow, contribute, and make an impact. Our team thrives on accountability, creativity, and a shared commitment to excellence. Explore open roles and see how you can build your future with us.
