As a pharmacist traveling throughout the Pacific Northwest, O’Neal Ford noticed a recurring problem: basic health and personal care items were often out of reach—especially during travel. That challenge became urgent during the early days of COVID-19, when even simple over-the-counter medications were hard to find.
“I kept thinking, why do we always have to go to the pharmacy? Why can’t the pharmacy come to us?” he shared.
That question became the foundation for Wmzy (pronounced “whimsy”), a vending-machine-based business offering curated health and wellness products in high-traffic locations like malls and airports.
From Idea to Action
The name Wmzy plays on the phrase “on a whim,” reflecting how the idea began—but there’s serious purpose behind the brand.
As a licensed pharmacist with years of experience in community pharmacy, O’Neal was using his background to build something innovative. He developed a business plan, researched technology options, and began testing the concept. He didn’t have all the answers or the funding, but determination and action kept him moving forward.
“You’re either dabbling or doing,” he said. “At some point, I decided to start doing.”
The First Big Step
After customizing his first vending machine, O’Neal pitched the idea to a major mall in Seattle. They loved it, and the machine has now been running successfully for two years. The positive response gave him the confidence to explore new opportunities for expansion.
Earlier this year, O’Neal responded to an RFP from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and after a long application process, he secured his second location. This milestone marks a turning point, giving Wmzy a growing regional presence and opening the door to more opportunities.
What Wmzy Offers
Wmzy machines carry over 180 travel-size products, all hand-selected by a pharmacist. From pain relief to allergy medications, creams, and first aid, each product is chosen for quality and safety. Whether it’s motion sickness relief or an on-the-go first-aid kit, customers can get what they need without leaving the terminal.
The machines are cashless and digitally monitored. Customers can even reach O’Neal directly through the business phone number printed on each machine.
To ensure accessibility and ease of use, Wmzy machines accept multiple payment methods, including credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and NFC. They are also designed with accommodation for individuals with disabilities.
Access to Capital and Guidance
Getting access to capital wasn’t easy, but it became a turning point. “When you gave me the loan, it was a moment of validation,” O’Neal said. “You believed in me.”
Working with Business Impact NW gave him access to capital and a trusted advisor. O’Neal credits Theo Ransum, Senior Loan Officer, with helping him think more strategically about the financial structure of his business. That insight helped him set a strong foundation for Wmzy’s growth.
“What stood out to me was O’Neal’s professionalism coupled with his presentation of a clear and concise business plan and projections,” Theo shared. “He knew his business and had a solid vision for how it could grow.”
O’Neal also shared that support like this is not something he takes for granted. “If organizations like this didn’t exist, I know for a fact this idea would still be sitting in a notebook. I would’ve never had the chance to start.”
Growing with Intention
Now that Wmzy has proven itself in two high-profile locations, O’Neal is thinking about scale. He’s considering a franchise model and exploring how to grow without losing the lean structure that’s allowed him to stay close to his customers.
“I don’t want to accumulate too much debt too fast,” he explained. “I’m taking my time and doing it right.”
O’Neal’s approach to growth is rooted in discipline and intentionality. He’s building not just for scale, but for long-term sustainability. As he put it, quoting his grandmother, “If you do it right the first time, you won’t have to go back and do it again.”
He envisions a future where Wmzy machines are found nationwide, from amusement parks and transit hubs to national parks. As brick-and-mortar pharmacies continue to close and customers demand more convenience, Wmzy is filling an emerging gap.
“This is a solution to a problem people don’t even know they have,” he said. “But once they see it, they get it.”
Start Your Own Journey
If you are an aspiring or growing entrepreneur with a vision of your own, Business Impact NW can help you take the next step. Learn more about our lending and business support services at businessimpactnw.org.
About the author
(ka-ro-lee-na goos-mahn)
Carolina is the Vice President of External Affairs at Business Impact NW, where she oversees marketing, communications, and development efforts, promoting the organization’s brand, reputation, and core mission. Fluent in English and Spanish, she leads a team focused on creating strategic marketing campaigns, establishing partnerships, and securing support for small business communities across the Pacific Northwest. Carolina holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master of Finance, and she brings over two decades of experience in marketing, finance, and strategic planning across various industries.