For over 20 years, the partnership between Harbor Fitness and Performance Food Centers (PFC) has been defined by trust, shared values and a commitment to elevating the member experience.
What began in 2004 with two Harbor Fitness locations has grown into a seamless collaboration supporting seven clubs with more plans on the way. While each location is unique from layout to club offerings, they all share one thing: a shake and smoothie bar powered by PFC.
“Before PFC, we were creating our own recipes with mixed results,” said Mike Ganim, chief financial officer for Harbor Fitness. “We knew we needed a consistent, streamlined system that would elevate what we offered while simplifying the process for our staff.”
Dan Young, the founder of PFC, said his own team has learned a lot from Ganim and his staff. From customer service principles to new recipes, Young said Harbor Fitness has helped PFC elevate above the competition.
“We believe that a rising tide lifts all boats,” Young said. “If we can listen to the problems that our customers have and find solutions to those, then we all succeed. If we can continue to grow business from within, a customer will recognize that we are truly their partner and won’t want to go anywhere else.”
Below, Ganim explores the start of their partnership, the benefits to both members and staff, and more.
How many locations does Harbor Fitness have?
We now operate seven Harbor Fitness locations, with plans to continue expanding deeper into Brooklyn in the coming years. Every club is proudly family-owned and operated by me and my brother Chris — a commitment we’ve carried for more than 30 years.
How long have you been a customer of Performance Food Centers (PFC)?
Harbor Fitness partnered with Young and the PFC team back in 2004, and I still remember that very first staff training like it was yesterday. Young walked in with an energy and enthusiasm that was absolutely contagious. Our team connected with him instantly, and that sense of excitement has never faded.
Why did you decide to partner with PFC? What problem were you looking to solve?
PFC delivered a consistent, streamlined system and more. Their recipes, branding and operational structure are clear, effective and universally appealing. Their products are pure, delicious, clean and industry-leading, and PFC continually evolves its offerings to stay ahead of member expectations. It was the exact solution we were looking for.
What are the benefits to your business as a result of this partnership?
With seven clubs and plans for more, consistency is everything. Staff training becomes more challenging as you scale, and we rely heavily on our managers and team leaders to maintain Harbor’s high service standards. PFC’s system makes that easy. Their recipes are simple, standardized and foolproof. Every member receives the same shake, prepared the same way, no matter which Harbor Fitness location they visit. That level of reliability builds trust, and trust drives repeat business.
What are the benefits to your members as a result of this partnership?
Our members are deeply committed to their training and their results. They understand that nutrition is just as important as the workout itself, and they expect products that support those goals. PFC delivers the highest-quality ingredients on the market. Our members know it, feel it and taste it — and that confidence keeps them coming back.
Have you been pleasantly surprised by working with PFC in any way?
Andrea, Dottie, Kate and Lindsay deserve special mention here. Their attention to detail and unmatched customer service still impress me to this day. After 21 years of working together, I can honestly say there hasn’t been a single issue that wasn’t addressed immediately and professionally. They’re as honest and reliable as partners come.
What else can you tell other club owners about the benefits of working with PFC?
If you’re not using PFC, not only are you missing out, but your members are, too. Give them a try — it may turn out to be the best decision you make all day.
