Invisible Armor, Visible Passion
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A year ago, Erik Edson unlocked the doors to a modest industrial space and saw more than salmon pink floors and leftover machinery. He saw possibility. Today, that space is home to Armor Protection Films LLC, a boutique automotive performance film studio built on craftsmanship, education, and community.
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“I’ve been installing for over 10 years,” Erik says. Trained in 2012 at 3M in Minnesota, he began his career in Denver before moving to Michigan in 2016. Over time, he worked in several shops but struggled to find the right fit – both professionally and personally. “I have three little kids. I needed flexibility. I wanted to represent something I believed in.”
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When a lease opened just minutes from his home, the timing aligned. With support from his family, Erik signed and began transforming the shop. He redid the garage, installed radiant heat to eliminate moving air during installations, added air purification, and created a clean, controlled environment where quality comes first. “Nobody wants to look at a piece of hair for 10 years,” he says with a laugh. “I can’t sleep at night knowing a vehicle left with imperfections.”
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Joining him is Melissa George, his longtime colleague and now business partner. The two first worked together several years ago in another shop, where Melissa oversaw operations and sales while Erik installed. Their skill sets naturally complemented each other. “I’m not a salesperson,” Melissa explains. “I’m an educator. I inform you about our product, how it works, why it does what it does – and then you decide.”
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That philosophy shapes everything at Armor Protection Films. The company specializes in automotive window tint and paint protection film – a clear, self-healing shield applied to a vehicle’s paint, similar to a screen protector for a phone. Their premium films reduce UV exposure, infrared heat, and glare, offering benefits far beyond aesthetics. “People really don’t know how far automotive window tint technology has come,” Melissa says. “It’s not just to look cool anymore. You will literally change the way you drive.”
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One of her favorite stories involves an elderly client who relied on yellow night-driving glasses. After installing a nearly invisible performance film, the client noticed a dramatic reduction in glare from headlights. “To take someone’s insecurity about night driving and turn it into confidence – that’s everything,” she says.
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The pair are intentional about transparency in an industry Melissa calls “the Wild West.” Every proposal details the exact film type, warranty, and performance specifications. Clients often receive multiple package options tailored to their driving habits and vehicle type. “We share the client’s film purchase with them,” Melissa explains. “We show them exactly how we’re going to use it.”
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Their focus extends beyond individual drivers. Armor Protection Films is building partnerships with local dealerships, particularly along the busy Lapeer Road corridor. Rather than transactional relationships, Erik envisions collaboration. “We want to be part of the client experience,” he says.
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Community matters deeply to both of them. They offer veteran discounts, maintain strict safety standards, and even require parental consent for younger drivers seeking modifications. They see themselves not only as business owners, but as neighbors. “We’re in business for the community,” Melissa says. “How can we help? That’s how we show up.”
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The shop itself reflects their shared vision – calm, organized, and welcoming. The atmosphere is intentional: focused but relaxed, professional but personal. “I think we did it right,” Melissa says.
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Though still in the early stages of growth, Armor Protection Films is built on years of experience, hard-earned lessons, and a commitment to doing things differently. Erik looks ahead with optimism. “I’m excited for a year from now. I’m excited for five years from now.”
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Together, they are not just installing film. They are building relationships, protecting investments, and quietly redefining what automotive care can look like in their community.
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For more information, visit: https://armorppf.com/