Can you tell us the story of how your family business started?
In 1983, a new chapter began for our family business. My parents, who grew up in downtown Philadelphia, owned a corner shop on 7th and Tree, where they sold ladies' handbags. Seeing a change in the market, they decided to transform their venture. That’s how Seventh Street Medical Supply was born, with our first location opening right there in South Philadelphia.
Why Choose Seventh Street Medical Supply?
Decades of Experience: Since 1983, we've built a reputation for reliable service and deep product knowledge. Whether you're shopping for yourself or a loved one, our expert team is ready to provide personalized guidance.
Certified Professionals: We hold the Joint Commission (JCAHO) accreditation, a symbol of our commitment to high standards. Andy Scolnick, President of Seventh Street Medical Supply is a Pennsylvania Licensed Orthotic Fitter, ensuring you receive professional and expert care.
Dependable Medical Supplies: From orthopedic braces to respiratory equipment, we provide a full line of durable medical supplies. We carefully select only the highest-quality products so you can feel confident in your purchase.
What inspired your family to start this business?
The main inspiration was the desire to help people directly. We saw a need for a local supplier who genuinely cared about their customers’ well-being. My father believed that providing medical supplies wasn't just a transaction, but a way to improve people's lives and give them more independence.
Who were the founders, and what was their original vision?
The roots of our company are deeply personal. Seventh Street Medical Supply was founded by my father, Irving, and my mother, Irene Scolnick. While they worked building the business in 1983, I contributed as a high school senior, selling at flea markets to help generate our initial capital. My parents' original vision was always clear: to be a trusted neighbor and a welcoming resource for our community, providing people with the medical supplies they needed in a warm and friendly environment.
What year did you open your doors, and what were those early days like?
We first opened our doors in 1983. The early days were a lot of hard work, as we ran the business out of a small storefront and even my parents’ home. While customers were few at the beginning, my father, Irving, loved having his friends stop by the office in South Philadelphia to visit, while my mother, Irene, handled all the billing from home. It was a humble start, but it laid the foundation for the business we are today.
Family Involvement
What roles do different family members play today?
The family legacy continues. While we deeply miss my father, Irving, who passed away in October 2021, and we honor my mother's retirement, the next generation is proud to carry on their work. Today, I lead the company, overseeing its operations and strategic direction. My wife, Nicole, is a key part of our team, actively managing our sleep apnea department while also serving as my go-to sounding board for my everyday work challenges. My daughter has forged her own path, pursuing her passion as a kindergarten teacher. My son is in his senior year of college, and we are hopeful he will one day choose to continue our family’s story.
Growth and Challenges
How has business evolved over the years?
Our business has evolved significantly since we first started. With our move to Bucks County, we were able to expand our offerings and provide a wider range of specialized equipment. We've also embraced technology to streamline our ordering process and enhance customer service. Throughout it all, our commitment to providing the highest-quality medical equipment and respiratory supplies remains unchanged.
What are some major milestones or turning points you've experienced?
Over the years, we've reached several key milestones that have shaped who we are today. The move to our current, larger location was a major step forward, enabling us to expand our product range and better serve our growing customer base. Our resilience was truly tested when we navigated the economic downturn during the COVID-19 pandemic. That experience taught us the importance of being adaptable and fiscally responsible, and it strengthened our resolve to always be there for our community.
What challenges have you faced as a family-owned business—and how did you overcome them?
Running a family-owned business presents unique challenges. Our team has expanded from 4 employees to 14, and in that time, we’ve built something truly special. I'm incredibly fortunate to have some of the best employees anyone could ask for—they are more than a team; they’ve become a part of our extended family.
How do you stay competitive in today’s market?
In today’s market, we choose to compete on value, not just on price. We offer what big online retailers cannot: a foundation of genuine expertise and personalized care. Our customers know they can pick up the phone and talk to a professional who will take the time to understand their unique needs. By staying at the forefront of the latest products and technologies, we ensure our community always has access to the best solutions. We believe that when it comes to your health, the expert guidance and peace of mind we provide are invaluable
Values and Culture
What values guide your business decisions?
Our decisions are guided by three core values: integrity, compassion, and community. We believe in being honest and transparent with our customers, treating everyone with kindness and respect, and giving back to the community that supports us.
What makes your business unique in your industry or community?
What makes us unique is the personal investment we have in every single customer. We aren't just selling a product; we're helping a neighbor find comfort, regain independence, or care for a loved one. When you walk into Seventh Street Medical Supply, you're not just a customer/patient, your part of our extended family.
Community and Impact
Giving back to our community isn't just a priority, it's a core part of our mission. Over the years, we've actively supported local events and causes, from sponsoring school initiatives to providing medical supplies to local clinics and charities. This dedication to being a trusted resource for our community has even been highlighted in multiple features on Fox News, showcasing our passion for making a difference right here at home.
What kind of relationships have you built with your customers over the years?
The relationships we’ve built are the most rewarding part of our business. Many of our customers have been with us for years, and we’ve got to know their families and personal stories. We often receive thank you notes and cards, which remind us that we’re making a real difference in people’s lives.
Looking Ahead
What’s your vision for the future of the business?
Our vision is to continue serving our community and expanding our reach while maintaining the personal touch that defines us. We plan to explore new technologies to improve our services and product offerings.
How do you plan to continue evolving while staying true to your roots?
We’ll always prioritize our core values of integrity and compassion. While we will embrace new ways of doing business, our commitment to our customers will never change. We’ll always be the neighborhood medical supply store that you can trust.
Seventh Street Medical Supply, Wealthcare Advisory Partners and Secure Planning Group, LLC are separate entities from LPL Financial.