Event Network, a leading retail operator for experiential cultural attractions in North America, has announced its newest partnership with Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) in Clearwater, Florida.
Known for increasing revenues through its award-winning store environments and bespoke merchandise assortments, Event Network began its partnership with Clearwater Marine Aquarium in February 2023.
CMA is well respected for its leadership in marine mammal research as well as its commitment to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life. By providing guests with an opportunity to see animals receiving medical care or undergoing rehabilitation in their working hospital, CMA is educating visitors through its animal rescue stories and inspiring the next generation of marine conservationists.
Guests can visit the Aquarium’s resident rescued animals like green sea turtles, river otters and dolphins, as well as enjoy Dolphintopia, an immersive exhibition about the science of dolphins and their intimate connection to humans.
Merchandise will highlight the work of the Aquarium
Event Network will showcase an expanded assortment of merchandise that highlights the work of the Aquarium and the amazing animals who reside at CMA.
Event Network works with 20 of North America’s leading aquariums and Clearwater Marine Aquarium is the firm’s newest aquarium partnership, further demonstrating EN’s steadfast commitment to partner with institutions that share its dedication to sustainability and conservation.
“Event Network is so proud to add Clearwater Marine Aquarium as a partner,” says Jerry Gilbert, principal of Event Network. “CMA’s mission to preserve our environment while inspiring the human spirit through leadership in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life; environmental education; research; and conservation…it aligns beautifully with our core values and with the missions of so many of our other partnerships.
“CMA provides us with another outstanding platform to do the sustainability work we are so passionate about, and in a wonderful and ever-expanding market. CMA’s plans to enhance its overall impact—as it relates to its mission and the guest experience—are incredibly exciting.”
Creating a unique, vision-centred shopping experience
Over the last 25 years, Event Network has developed a reputation for creating custom retail solutions for mission-based institutions that extend the unique experience of each partnership. Event Network’s exclusive focus on retail delivers increased revenue and year-over-year growth to its partners as a result of creative product assortments and sustainable, plastic-free store environments.
Event Network’s dedication to elevating the retail offering of each partnership has made it the leading retail operator in the cultural attraction space. The company brings innovation, a diverse vendor base, connections to local artisans, guest-centric team members and technology that increases guest satisfaction, creating a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.
Joe Handy, CEO of Clearwater Marine Aquarium says: “Event Network was very intentionally selected because of their outstanding history in working with so many leading aquariums (and other attractions), as well as their vision for CMA.
“CMA is going to transform itself in the coming years and we need a partner who can not only keep up in terms of their ability to operate; but one who truly understands how to be stewards of our expanding brand reach. Event Network has proven repeatedly that it has that acumen and the wherewithal to sustain it going forward.”
Event Network also recently revealed a store remodel project at Phoenix Zoo. The newly redesigned space is more open and accessible, featuring sustainable elements and eco-friendly retail.
