SSA Group, a best-in-class provider of integrated guest services, has announced that two of its recent projects have been recognised at the Shop! Design Awards 2023.
The Shop! Design Awards were created to celebrate achievements in areas such as new store design, renovations, fixtures, visual presentation projects and in-store communications. Entries are recognised for their excellence in design, originality in the use of space and materials, and quality of concept execution. The winners are selected by an independent panel of judges.
This year, two SSA Group projects were recognised. The Wild Things Gift Shop at Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Maryland, won in the Elements category of In-Store Communications, while The South Gate Marketplace Concept at Brookfield Zoo in Brookfield, Illinois, was honoured in the Elements category of Storefront/Exterior.
Brookfield Zoo’s South Gate Marketplace concept
For this project, the SSA team wanted to maintain the look and feel of the building in its original form as best it could, while still providing a new, elevated, and modernised look. In order to achieve this goal, SSA Group used complimentary colours and minimally invasive design enhancements to complement the structure’s existing charm.
Through shades of brown, black, and tan, with subtle pops of colour, the exterior of the shop maintains its homey, cottage feel, so that it continues to be welcoming and comforting to returning zoo patrons.
The team used multiple unique fonts to display “South Gate Market”, for a playful and welcoming greeting to the store. This juxtaposition between classic and contemporary fonts is a subtle nod to the combined service concept that exists only within this unique space.
The eye-catching but subtle animal silhouette features iconic Brookfield Zoo animals. As one of the more focal things the guest sees upon entry to the zoo, this line of animals feels as though it is guiding visitors into the zoo for a day of adventure. This creates a beautiful building exterior that further promotes the client’s branding and mission.
Maryland Zoo’s Wild Things gift shop
With this remodel, the SSA team wanted to create a captivating and engaging vibe that evokes emotion, with a connection to the Baltimore Zoo and the surrounding Baltimore community. Combining the best parts of Baltimore with the unique attributes of Maryland Zoo, this shop allows for a well-rounded representation of the two as the guest’s final impression after their visit.
With digital components such as Breeze Creative and Pepper the robot, guests are inspired and educated while spending time in the shop. As well as selling products, the store also offers a dynamic, unforgettable guest experience.
SSA Group’s goal with this project was to educate zoo visitors on Maryland Zoo conservation efforts, promote local events and community engagement programs, and advertise product collaborations only found at this location. The aim was to help amplify the messaging the entire store is designed around: sustainability, technology, innovation, and local flair.
Through this, the team was able to replace the need for conventional marketing, furthering the firm’s sustainability initiatives.
Earlier this month, SSA Group announced a new partnership with Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and its water park Zoombezi Bay. The deal will cover food service, catering and retail operations for the two attractions. The partnership was agreed upon in February 2023 and SSA Group has initiated both short and long-term development plans with a range of measures designed for rapid change.
