Earlier this year, the Detroit Zoo debuted Detroit Zoo Shop as its renamed and revamped main gift shop. Completed in April, the remodel follows the zoo’s broader rebrand in 2024.
Jeff Sell, director of communications at the Detroit Zoo, shares that the zoo’s rebrand last year was driven by a desire to modernize its look and reflect its identity.
“We’ve always believed the Detroit Zoo is more than a place to see animals; it’s a space where people, animals and the natural world make meaningful connections. Our visual identity hadn’t evolved in decades to tell that story,” he says. “We saw an opportunity to create something vibrant and timeless that matched the depth of our mission — from conservation to education to community connection. The new branding is about more than logos; it’s a tool for storytelling, a way to help guests and supporters see themselves in our work. It’s also been a chance to spark fresh energy and reintroduce the zoo to audiences old and new.”
The zoo’s new look is now reflected in its revamped Detroit Zoo Shop, as well. Managed by SSA Group, the gift shop sells everything from plush souvenirs to toys, zoo-themed apparel and artisan-made gifts. The shop offers a mix of wholesale items and locally made and sourced merchandise, along with sustainable products and unique items that celebrate the Detroit Zoo and its community.
Both the zoo team and SSA Group had discussed updating the zoo’s main gift shop for several years, recognizing a need for a modernized shopping experience. Sell says the zoo and SSA Group began work on remodeling the main gift shop in the fall of 2024, with renovations complete by April.
The revamped gift shop includes some new technology, such as self-checkout and self-order kiosks, and even a Coffee Corner section that allows guests to purchase a drink as well as souvenirs while browsing the gift shop.
In addition, the zoo partnered with several local Detroit and Michigan-based businesses to highlight in the store’s gift and souvenir section. Sell says some examples include End Grain Woodworking Co.’s coasters, bottle openers and magnets from reclaimed wood found throughout some of Detroit’s historic buildings; Whistling Frog Tile Co.’s custom Detroit Zoo tiles; Uncle Goose toys made in Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Zoo Keys that have been a hit with the guests.
The new Coffee Corner in the store has also offered guests a new spot to grab locally roasted coffee blends, lattes, cold brews as well as sweet and savory food items.
“We’ve had a great public response,” Sell says of the gift shop. “Our community is so supportive of the zoo, and they seem to really enjoy having a new and improved place where they can pick out a special keepsake.”
