http://discourse.stonehearth.net/t/changing-healing-system-herbalist/19699/2
Ponder replied, that radiant try to avoid such 100% individual equipment, so rations, potions and other items won’t be a constant part of your hearthlings (aslong it’s not really necessary, like ammunition for ranged classes). So a Hauler who is part of a military/worker group, could function like a mobile stockpile, providing food, medical supply, ammunation and other consumables. Additionaly they could add a temporary camp function, so your hearthling would use this camp as safe zone, sleeping around a campfire and gathering the loot at this point.
With such mechanic, they could shorten long distances troops/workers have to walk, making the whole system more efficient. (no need to commute between town and working/looting/fighting areas)