Posted July 12, 2019 in Enclosures & Development
Phase 2 of our gift shop ‘The Outpost’ nears completion!
Following the opening of phase one of The Outpost gift shop in March, work is near completion on the second phase of this redevelopment and is due to open on the 16th July!
The second phase focused on the redevelopment of the old Ark Shop, creating a new exit foyer including a wristband collection point and creating an enjoyable shopping experience for our visitors.
As you leave via the new exit of the zoo a member of staff will be on hand to provide re-entry wristbands for those visitors without Zoo Passes who are popping out to the car and require re-entry. Past this point you will walk through our two new, modern exit gates into The Outpost. The layout of the shop is open plan and continues the theming from phase one with a bright and light feel, smart new shelving and animal graphics to add to the atmosphere. This part of the shop also provides an additional pay point for those paying by card to help minimise queues.
As well as a new look we’ve also introduced some new products including our very own selection of ‘My Moments’ products which allow you to personalise a number of Colchester Zoo souvenirs, from keyrings and magnets to drinking flasks and bags! Once you’re chosen and personalised your item on screen you’ll receive a receipt to take to our Pay and Collect counter where your item will be processed especially for you! We have new product lines too so do come along and check out the new shop!
Once open, this section of the shop will temporarily be connected to the existing shop via a tunnelled walkway as we begin work on the third and final phase of the shop redevelopment! The final phase will offer additional retail space including items for the garden but also introduce The Outpost Coffee Lounge. This will bring a contemporary lounge area offering a great place to meet with friends before a day of exploration and somewhere to relax and enjoy a bite to eat before setting off on your journey home. Take away options will also be available for those who prefer to eat on the go.
All of these improvements are being made with the visitors in mind, to provide a first class experience right from the point they enter the zoo to when they leave. We would like to thank you for your patience and cooperation whilst these works take place and do apologise for any minimal disruption caused in the meantime.
