Keeping the shop ‘alive’

Retail is more than an add-on at Potawatomi Zoo — it’s a key part of the guest experience. With one main gift shop, two kiosks and seasonal pop-ups tied to special events, the zoo’s retail footprint is designed to meet guests wherever they are in their visit.

For Retail Manager Kaitlynn Snowden, that means stocking products that resonate immediately — and sell consistently. Increasingly, that responsibility has centered around one key partner: Zoologee, A Petting Zoo Company.

A plush-driven strategy

Zoologee plush has long been part of the zoo’s assortment, but in the past year, Snowden has significantly expanded the relationship. What once accounted for about half of the store’s plush offering has now grown to nearly the entire category.

That shift was driven in part by reliability amid tariff-related uncertainty. “Zoologee was very responsive and communicated a lot,” Snowden explains. “They really cared about the customer. That spoke volumes to me.”

Products that connect

While the assortment spans a wide range of animals — from red pandas and capybaras to axolotls and dart frogs — success often comes down to how closely the product reflects the zoo’s unique identity.

“Zoologee is always trying to meet customer needs, whether it’s making a plush that they don’t currently carry or coming up with something at a price point that is affordable to everyone.”— kaitlynn snowden

One standout example is a custom-developed item. “Zoologee worked with me on coming out with a sand cat plush, and it is one of our top sellers.”

Demand has been so strong that the line has already expanded. “We sell out of it all the time,” she adds. “That’s why we talked to them about creating a smaller version.”

New introductions also keep the assortment fresh for returning visitors. From the eco-inspired Earth Keeperz line to plush-and-purse hybrids, Zoologee continues to evolve alongside consumer trends.

“In the zoo world, you just never know what the popular item is going to be,” Snowden says. “They do a really good job at following the trends so you’re not constantly having the same plush over and over again.”

A True Retail Partner

Beyond product, Snowden points to Zoologee’s service and responsiveness as a defining advantage.

“Reordering is extremely easy,” she says. “I basically have a form of everything I need, and we go over it.”
Equally important is the consultative approach. “They’re not out to just make a sale,” Snowden explains. “They’re out to make sense for your establishment.”

Growing together

Looking ahead, Snowden sees continued momentum in the partnership — both in product expansion and overall sales.

“We’ll continue to grow with them,” she says. “We’re up to about 85% of ordering with them, so I can’t see us going down in any way.”

With new events like the zoo’s immersive lantern festival bringing in additional traffic — and new opportunities for retail — Zoologee remains a key piece of the strategy.

“They’re always bringing new things to the table,” Snowden says. “They really help keep your gift shop alive.”

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About Zoologee

Zoologee (A Petting Zoo Company) is a family-run brand creating beloved plush toys inspired by nature, curiosity, and play since 1994. Serving zoos, aquariums, parks, resorts, and a wide variety of retailers worldwide, the company is dedicated to bringing the wonder
of wildlife to kids and families. Driven by a commitment to sustainability, Zoologee reimagines
recycled materials into planet-friendly toys, helping to protect our environment for future generations. With a focus on educational spirit and imaginative play, Zoologee brings animals to life through quality design and eco-conscious innovation. Discover the wonder, curiosity, and heart behind every Zoologee creation.

www.zoologee.com • customercare@zoologee.com • 888-867-4059