CONTACT: Kyle Shepherd
Direct: 502-238-5331 | Media Only: 502-744-5639
kyle.shepherd@louisvilleky.gov
The Louisville Zoo recently named Denver-based Service Systems Associates (SSA) as its exclusive hospitality partner. Under terms of the agreement, SSA will manage the culinary and retail programs at the 134-acre facility and will support the Zoo’s mission to “Better the Bond Between People and Our Planet” by providing a great experience for guests.
Zoo Director John Walczak said SSA offered the best package in terms of product, customer service, innovation, knowledge of business and the capital and financial returns. He added, “SSA has been doing a great job serving other zoos. We wanted a partner who would work hard and exceed guest expectations. SSA delivers exceptional customer service.”
“The Louisville Zoo is one of the country’s top zoos, and we look forward to enhancing the guest experience with new and innovative culinary offerings and a dynamic retail program – all delivered with exemplary customer service,” said Tim Brantley, SSA President & CEO. “Our experience in providing similar services for many other zoos and aquariums will ensure that we will offer something for all guests to enjoy.”
Zoo and SSA staffs are executing new dining and catering experiences with new concepts and menus that feature fresh, sustainable ingredients from local and regional farmers and suppliers. Walczak said it was important that SSA is dedicated to buying locally when possible. Improvements are also occurring in the Zoo’s gift shops and will feature additional eco-friendly and fair trade items, as well as physical improvements to the shops and new fixtures and interactive displays. Walczak said SSA has already transformed the gift shop into an inviting and fun experience.
Walczak reported that he’s impressed that SSA is committed to delivering quality products with exceptional customer service. “This is their specialty – they are committed to the zoo and aquarium family and excel in this business,” he added, “SSA believes in our mission, and we look forward to partnering with them.”
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About Service Systems Associates: SSA manages retail, culinary and guest services amenities at more than 40 museums, botanic gardens, zoos and aquariums in the United States, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Saint Louis Science Center, Utah’s Hogle Zoo, and the Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco and Denver Zoos. The company is a national leader in guest service amenities for cultural attractions, serving over 27 million guests annually. For more information, please visit the website at www.KMSSA.com
About Louisville Zoo, The Louisville Zoo, a non-profit organization and state zoo of Kentucky, is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) and by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
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