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Learn more with a free webinar. New staple food requirements taking effect Nov. 4, 2026. Starting next month, most SNAP retailers must carry at least seven varieties of staple foods in each of four groups: fruits and vegetables, dairy, proteins, and grains. USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service is expected to enforce these standards closely, and smaller retailers that fall short could be withdrawn from the program. Join WFIA on Tuesday, Oct. 27 at 10:00 a.m. PST for a webinar with attorney Stewart Fried, who represents SNAP retailers nationwide. He’ll explain the upcoming changes and best practices for staying compliant. REGISTER HERE

Here’s a quick look at some of the c-store food-and-drink trends that stood out among the aisles and aisles of meat snacks, dispensed beverages, pizza, protein bars and so much more, as reported by Heather Lalley, IFMA The Food Away from Home Association, Director of Communications. Read the full story here

What’s Trending in 2026? From protein-packed bites and fiber-forward favorites to bold global flavors and better-for-you indulgences, today's snack aisle is evolving fast. The latest industry trends show consumers are seeking snacks that do more, with a growing focus on nutrition, wellness, convenience, and adventurous flavors. Read the full story

onsumers are no longer reaching for snacks solely to satisfy hunger or indulge a craving. Instead, they're increasingly using snacks to support a variety of needs, from boosting energy and productivity to providing comfort and enjoyment, according to new research from Hartman Group. Read the full story

Snack sales are fueled by bold flavors, health trends and promotional value. Healthy is trending in the center store, with growth in fiber and protein leading this charge. While customers certainly still value longtime snack staples, the search for functional ingredients and bolder flavors is increasing, and retailers and their vendor partners are responding. Read the full story

Discover the origins of Harbor Foods, a fourth-generation family-owned distributor founded in 1923. Learn how Carl V. Erickson’s vision grew into a billion-dollar company built on service, relationships, and the belief that life happens around the table. Learn more here

The National Association of Wholesalers recently ran a feature article showcasing Harbor's commitment to its Team Members and also to the community. Below is a short excerpt: The National Association of Wholesalers is proud to recognize one of our esteemed long-time members, Harbor Foods, whose focus on employee growth and commitment to community service is reflective of their reputation for excellence. With core programs devoted to highlighting employee achievement and community giving, their emphasis on the caring for people side of business is exemplary. Read the full story

For the fourth year in a row, Harbor Foods has been recognized by the Puget Sound Business Journal as one of Washington’s Best Workplaces. This honor reflects more than just a ranking, it highlights the people, culture, and purpose that drive Harbor every day. To celebrate, our team gathered at T-Mobile Park, home of the Seattle Mariners, where we were recognized among the Top 15 Extra Large Companies (#11 overall). It was a proud moment to see Harbor’s name called, with our team holding our company banner high. Multiple generations of the Erickson family even had the chance to run the bases together, making the evening even more memorable. The celebration continued off the field, with plenty of laughs, high-fives, and camaraderie shared on the bus rides to and from the event. These moments reinforced what makes Harbor unique: a shared commitment to independence, community, and one another. Awards like this are a tremendous honor, but it’s the everyday teamwork, dedication, and heart across our organization that truly make Harbor one of the best places to work. Here’s to celebrating four years of recognition, and to continuing to build a workplace we can all be proud of.