Mindful materials, alignment with a sustainability mission, and providing a mix of apparel for regular member visitors and one-time guests are priorities for zoo gift shops. With many zoos offering souvenir outposts, such as an aquarium-focused shop or a pop-up stand to support a special exhibit, there are many layers of considerations that factor into buying decisions for these destination retailers.
Products at gift shops throughout Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium are sourced with sustainability in mind, aligning with its mission. And when it comes to apparel, “That may be using a recycled material or working with companies that refine their printing process to use less water,” says Terranella.
Stocking sustainable souvenirs
Because zoos are much more than a visitor attraction and play an integral role in animal conservation, research, field study and environmental preservation, the products their gift shops carry must reflect the same values.Photos: Aiva Genys
Connecting merchandise to exhibits
Celebrating animal births, the addition of different species to a zoo and special events are other purchase drivers. At Reid Park Zoo in Tucson, Arizona, a strong following for its herd of elephants is reflected in the shop with dedicated elephant displays featuring apparel, mugs, plushies and more.Recently, a baby giraffe was born, also resulting in interest from visitors who looked in the shop for apparel commemorating the milestone. Wild dogs are also a new addition, as are sloths.
Presentation by category
Conservation extends into zoo gift shop presentation. Big Tim is a shining example at Zoo Atlanta’s gift shop. The elephant structure is a centerpiece made from recycled flip-flops, and customers can purchase souvenir leopard, giraffe and rhinoceros figures made from the same repurposed material. (While not zoo apparel, these fun take-homes reflect the zoo’s mission.)At Turtle Cove Gift Shop in Kansas City, a repurposed sea turtle from a previous lantern festival suspends from the ceiling over a display, front and center. It’s the first thing customers see upon entering.