By Elizabeth Lowe
Staff writer

Goodrich – A retail heritage meshed with a passion for firefighting when Rick Eisenshtadt bought Welch Uniform & Accessories in April.
The store, located at 10240 Hegel Road in downtown Goodrich, supplies police and firefighter uniforms, socks and footwear, badges, T-shirts, accessories, custom-order embroidered items, bags, theme flags, plaques, leather goods, ballistic vests, flashlights, knives, gifts and collectibles, along with handcuffs and replacement keys.
Approximately a dozen categories of new items have been added since the new owner came in. Expect expansion within the next three years, says Eisenshtadt.
Dress uniform lines include Fechheimer, 5.11 Tactical, Propper, and Flying Cross. Body armor by Public Safety Products, Gator Hawk Armor, and First Choice can be special-ordered.
Eisenshtadt, 50, belongs to the family who owned the former 21-store Phillips Shoes before the chain was sold. Firefighting is also in his blood.
‘Ever since I was a little kid, my dad would take me every Saturday to a different fire house. He put me on the fire pole and let me slide down,? said Eisenshtadt, who grew up in Huntington Woods, Mich.
When he grew older, he purchased an antique fire truck at an auction, which prompted a fire chief to let him try out a modern truck.
Today, Eisenshtadt gets a first-hand look at the products he sells as a firefighter for the Franklin-Bingham Fire Department in Franklin, Mich., and as a medical supervisor for Hart Medical. He’s also looking to join a local fire department.
Body armor garments should be custom-purchased from a reputable distributor rather than used off-the-rack, says Eisenshtadt, who takes six key measurements in fitting vests, including seated and driving positions.
Looking for just the right gift for the proud firefighter or officer? Welch Uniform carries Vanmark Collectible statues to suit the occasion.
While the store limits sales of badges and ballistic vests to uniformed safety professionals, you’ll find products that appeal to the general public as well.
Parents of college students and runners frequently purchase pepper spray on a keychain, available for less than $20. Military-style pants are also popular.
Many items are in stock or can be custom-ordered or tailored. Customers come from as far away as Marquette, Mich. to buy from the store.
Welch Uniform & Accessories is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (810) 636-3911.