Spring 2022 - 58

DESTINATION: ZOO ATLANTA
Positive
Impact
By Debbie Eisele
Managing Editor
Retail shops at Zoo Atlanta
inspire stewardship of the planet
Z
oo Atlanta is a destination that is " dedicated to connecting
people to animals and inspiring conservation action. " For
more than 100 years, the zoo has served Atlanta and it is
the oldest cultural institution in the city, according to Katherine
Messer, store director for Zoo Atlanta.
" The Zoo Atlanta shops offer an array of items that inspire
stewardship of our planet, and assortments that help make
a positive impact toward conservation and promote a more
sustainable lifestyle to help protect species, the planet and natural
habitats, " explained Messer. " For example, we offer a collection of
crochet animals, coffees, jewelry, and other artisanal goods made
by people living in communities that are susceptible to poaching
land and animals. When guests purchase these wonderful gifts, we
uplift the communities and create less need for tapping into vital
resources for their livelihoods. "
Panda Popularity
Zoo Atlanta offers two brick-and-mortar stores, as well as several
kiosks that are positioned near exhibits. " At 4,000 square feet, the
Trading Company is the largest retail store at Zoo Atlanta. Due to its
placement within the zoo grounds, it is a popular meeting point, "
Messer shared. Merchandise includes Zoo Atlanta themed gifts,
apparel, accessories, toys, educational toys, books and more.
The Panda Pagoda is very popular as it celebrates the beloved
giant pandas. Messer explained that the Panda Pagoda recently
experienced a makeover in November 2021 and now features a new
58 SPRING 2022 MUSEUMS&MORE
concept that was " inspired by traditional Chinese architecture and
Chinese gardens. "
Inside, everything is panda-related - bamboo-themed details
depict the pandas' natural habitat. " By dedicating the shop
specifically to giant pandas, we are able to create an immersive
experience and really expand the related product offerings. We
feel this level of focus creates a wonderful guest experience that
further supports and reinforces the important work that Zoo
Atlanta does to help pandas thrive and what guests can do to help
support, " she said.
Call to Action
Zoo Atlanta has opted to procure merchandise that reflects
its values - " specifically those that are made responsibly and
those that give back to initiatives that help the planet. " Messer
also explained that the vendors it uses also are aligned with the
Zoo's mission.
Quality merchandise, produced in a sustainable manner, is
important. Messer said it is just as important to display items that
" spark conversation and thought " about conservation and will help
spur positive action.
The retail shops offer collections, from flamingos to orangutans,
that allow visitors to connect with a product that
resonates
and appeals to them. " Guests will also find items that they can
customize to reflect their personal style, such as stainless-steel
water bottles that they can decorate with stickers of their favorite
Spring 2022

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Spring 2022
