Jacksonville-based company to unveil vending machine for over-the-counter drugs

A Jacksonville-based company is hoping to make it as easy to buy over-the-counter drugs as it is to snag candy or snacks from a vending machine.

Medic Inc. is showcasing its 24/7 Convenience Center, featuring a 46” display and interactive platform, during a demonstration at the JAX Chamber on Dec. 2.

The machine has the capability of dispensing over 50 different over-the-counter medications and personal care products to treat non-emergency conditions and situations. The amount of product dispensed will be comparable to a travel-size portion.

Michelle Birt, secretary treasurer of Medic Inc., says the goal is to place the vending machines in densely-populated areas like offices, dormitories and transportation terminals.

“Say you’re at work, you have a head ache, instead of running down to the drug store, we are a drug store on location,” Birt told WOKV. “

In addition to pain relievers and cough drops, customers will also be able to purchase personal hygiene products like shaving cream, razors, shampoo and reading glasses. Most items will cost between $1-3 and $5 if you need a more expensive decongestant like Mucinex.

Medic Inc. will lease space for each location, and provide opportunities for organizations to run advertisements and promotions on the machine’s screen. Birt said a royalty arrangement is “open to discussion” with the location provider.

Representatives from the company have started conversations with the Jacksonville Aviation Authority and other organizations around Jacksonville, according to Birt.

The demo being held at the JAX Chamber on Dec. 2 will be the first time anyone outside of Medic Inc. has been able to interact with the machines.

Each machine costs around $10,000 to make.