Chapter 1
Life Happens Around the Table

A century ago, a Swedish immigrant named Carl V. Erickson arrived in Aberdeen, Washington, with a dream and a work ethic that would lay the foundation for one of the West Coast’s most enduring family businesses. In 1923, Carl co-founded West Coast Produce Company, distributing butter, eggs, and cheese to local grocery stores and logging camps. From humble beginnings in a 5,000-square-foot warehouse and a Model T truck, Harbor Foods has grown into a billion-dollar enterprise serving over 8,000 customers across six states.

Harbor’s story is deeply rooted in family. Four generations of the Erickson family have led the company, each building on the legacy of service, integrity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Today, CEO Justin Erickson continues that tradition, guiding Harbor Foods through modern challenges while honoring its heritage.

From the beginning, Harbor Foods has prioritized relationships, with employees, customers, and communities. Carl’s personal approach to customer service, including hand-written orders and face-to-face visits, set the tone for a company culture that still thrives today. That commitment earned Harbor the 2023 Family Business of the Year award from the Puget Sound Business Journal.

What started as a small dairy distributor has evolved into Harbor Wholesale and Harbor Foodservice, offering thousands of products, branded solutions, and logistics support to restaurants, convenience stores, and independent grocers. With over 1,200 employees and a fleet of 150+ trucks, Harbor Foods is now the largest independent fourth-generation family-owned distributor on the West Coast.

Harbor’s centennial isn’t just a celebration of the past, it’s a promise to the future. The company’s motto, “Life Happens Around the Table,” reflects its belief that food connects people, and Harbor is proud to be part of that connection every day.