Queens Proud | LeNoble Lumber

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in the borough where it all began, Queens, and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and businesses that make our community home. Today, we take a look at the history of LeNoble Lumber in Long Island City, Queens and their longstanding relationship with New York City’s cinematic industries.

LeNoble Lumber, founded in 1965 by Paul LeNoble, has become a prominent player in the industry, supplying high-quality wood products to diverse clientele. With a focus on sustainability and a strong sense of community, LeNoble Lumber has not only left its mark on the architectural and film industries, but also has made a positive economic impact on the surrounding communities.

During the 1970s, LeNoble Lumber emerged as a favorite supplier to New York's motion picture and television industry. Iconic films such as "The Producers," "Rosemary's Baby," "Midnight Cowboy," "Klute," "The Godfather," and "Dog Day Afternoon" all relied on LeNoble's top-notch set construction materials. Their dedication to quality and service quickly gained them a reputation as a reliable partner for the film industry, solidifying their position as a go-to supplier.

Throughout the 1980s, LeNoble Lumber's reputation for quality products and exceptional service expanded its clientele to include premier museums, department stores, display companies, and commercial contractors across New York City. In 1998, LeNoble joined forces with Maxwell Lumber, another family-owned company, enhancing their B2B reach and venturing into additional industries. This collaboration brought Marc Bernstein, head of Maxwell Lumber and a cousin of the LeNoble family, on board as the Vice President of LeNoble. In 2007, LeNoble Lumber outgrew its Manhattan facilities and moved to a spacious 200,000-square-foot office and distribution center in Long Island City. This move allowed them to serve their expanding customer base more efficiently. In the following years, LeNoble became a major player in the architectural hardwood plywood, fiberboard, and particle board industries. Their dedication to quality led them to develop strategic partnerships with renowned mills like Columbia Forest Products.

LeNoble Lumber stands out from other lumber companies due to its unwavering commitment to sustainability. Recognizing the importance of preserving the world's forests, LeNoble became accredited by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). They promote and sell FSC-certified materials to their customers, ensuring that responsible forest management practices are followed. LeNoble's dedication to sustainability has not only helped conserve forests but has also made a significant impact on the film and television industry, one of the largest consumers of lumber products. The company’s success can be attributed in part to its strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork. The company views its 80+ employees as part of a large, intimate family.

As a significant employer in Long Island City, the company has a positive economic influence on the surrounding communities. By providing stable employment opportunities for over 80 individuals, LeNoble contributes to the local economy, supporting families and creating a ripple effect that benefits nearby businesses. LeNoble’s journey from a small lumberyard to a renowned supplier has been marked by a commitment to quality, sustainability, and community impact. From servicing the film and television industry to expanding its reach in various sectors, LeNoble Lumber’s dedication to customer satisfaction and sustainable practices has set them apart. With their deep-rooted sense of family and their focus on preserving the environment, LeNoble Lumber continues to shape the industry and leave a lasting impression on the communities they serve!