The Chattanooga Zoo has partnered with Denver-based Service Systems Associates, a national company specializing in culinary and retail management in cultural attractions, as its exclusive culinary and retail provider.
"As a visitor services industry leader, SSA will use its expertise to provide new culinary options with a focus on fresh cuisine, excellent retail experience, and outstanding customer service," officials said. "This partnership comes at a time of growth and advancement at the Chattanooga Zoo. With continuing to grow the Zoo’s annual attendance and animal collection, implementing new educational offerings, and openings of new innovative exhibits (coming soon), the goal of this partnership is to create an exceptional visitor experience as we strive to educate and fulfill our mission. The partnership with SSA promises to be a successful endeavor as both partners place the highest importance on the quality of our work and the satisfaction of our visitors."
“We’re excited to have SSA manage our culinary and retail operations at the Chattanooga Zoo. We wanted a partner that had an exceptional track record in visitor services and we were pleased to find that with SSA,” said Dardenelle Long, Chattanooga Zoo president and CEO. “As our Zoo continues its growth, it is important to us that we find partners that are committed to our mission and will support our goals.”
Since SSA’s implementation, the Zoo has undergone renovations to the Zoo Gift Shop with an expansion on merchandise offerings to interest a variety of ages and personalities. The Zoo Gift Shop offers merchandise exclusively created for the Chattanooga Zoo, handmade items that support conservation initiatives, pieces created by locals, children’s books, new clothing, and more.
"The Zoo’s food service facility has also undergone renovations, and we are proud to announce the opening of our new culinary experience, Wild Burger. Wild Burger will serve as the Zoo’s premiere restaurant, serving gourmet burgers, hand breaded chicken tenders, and crisp salads, among other items. Additionally, multiple Dippin’ Dots stations have been added throughout the Zoo to provide chilly treats as we move into the warmer months. Wild Burger is open on the weekends and nice weather days until summer."