The Memphis Zoo has entered into a partnership with hospitality company Levy and its retail subsidiary, Rank + Rally, to enhance the food, beverage, and retail experiences for zoo visitors. The collaboration began this month and aims to introduce new culinary options as well as expanded merchandise offerings.
Levy will be responsible for all aspects of food and beverage services at the zoo. Plans include introducing new menu items at Cat House Café, such as hand-breaded chicken tenders, fresh market salads, and seasonal dishes. Additional dining locations across the zoo are scheduled to open in early spring with offerings like house-smoked BBQ, street tacos, quesabirria, and wok-fired noodle cups. The partnership also includes themed food and drink specials tied to the zoo’s events throughout the year.
Rank + Rally will curate custom merchandise collections available in on-site shops and collaborate with the zoo on launching an online retail platform. Some of these products will be exhibit-inspired or limited-edition items exclusive to the Memphis Zoo.
Environmental sustainability is also a focus of this partnership. New measures include compostable packaging, reduced use of disposable containers, and a system for tracking food waste.
“As Memphis Zoo continues to evolve, this collaboration supports our commitment to thoughtful growth and exceptional guest experiences,” said Matt Thompson, President and CEO of Memphis Zoo. “Working with Levy and Rank + Rally gives us the opportunity to reimagine dining and retail in ways that complement our mission while adding comfort, creativity, and a strong sense of place across the Zoo.”
Andy Lansing, CEO of Levy added: “We’re thrilled to partner with the Memphis Zoo, a world-renowned institution and beloved cultural hub in Memphis. Together, we’ll create dynamic guest experiences with customized hospitality and merchandise offerings that amplify the zoo, its exhibits and events throughout the year, while showcasing the best of Memphis.”
Levy brings experience from serving other prominent zoos including Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago; Kansas City Zoo; Woodland Park Zoo; Oregon Zoo; Mississippi Aquarium; as well as providing hospitality at major events such as the Kentucky Derby and Grammy Awards.
Rank + Rally has worked on immersive retail projects at venues nationwide including partnerships with Cirque du Soleil and Blue Man Group performance spaces.
The Memphis Zoo is located in Midtown Memphis’s Overton Park. It houses over 3,500 animals representing more than 500 species. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), it welcomes about one million visitors annually.
Further updates regarding specific enhancements to food service or retail operations are expected over coming months.
