SSA Group, a best-in-class provider of integrated guest services, recently finalised the renovation of the Naples Zoo gift shop as part of the new entry plaza for the popular zoo at Caribbean Gardens in Naples, Florida.
The new entry plaza at Naples Zoo features various updates, including the new education centre, welcome centre, and gift shop. The plaza’s design is very much a nod to the beautiful Florida coast, which features pastel buildings, oversized botanicals, and a relaxing vibe that mimics that of the surrounding beach communities.
Taking inspiration from nature
“Our goal was to mimic that design intent inside the shop as well by contrasting the vibrant, playful exterior with a clean, tranquil, sophisticated interior.,” explains SSA Group. “The Naples Zoo gift shop offers an immersive experience that resonates with both the tropical location and the upscale sensibility of Naples, Florida.”
Through the use of immersive palm leaves, digital components like signage and LED screens, and compelling custom graphics and design techniques, this shop acts as an extension of the beauty the Naples Zoo has to offer. This gift shop helps provide guests with a unique offering of local products, conservation-focused items, and many souvenir offerings to commemorate their day at the zoo.
Earlier this month, the company announced that it had won a Shop! Design Award for its work on the Playhouse shop at the Strong Museum of Play in Rochester, New York. The Strong Museum of Play is the only collections-based museum in the world dedicated to the history and exploration of play. The shop was designed to reflect the overall spirit of playfulness and imagination that characterizes the mission of the museum.
Last month, SSA Group in partnership with Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, also received an Appreciation Award at Last Mile Food Rescue’s Miles of Gratitude event. In 2023, SSA Group and Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden donated 1,826 lbs of food, which translated to 1,522 meals for the community and 992 lbs of CO2 prevented.
