The Memphis Zoo has laid off employees as part of a reorganization in its Education department. The zoo has not disclosed the number of employees affected or provided details about the lay-offs. The changes are said to reduce the part-time component of the Exhibit Guide program and reorganize the Animal Interpretive Team to enhance efficiency and guest experience while maintaining the care of animals.
Full statement from the zoo:
“The recent move was the result of a comprehensive reorganization of our Education department. We reduced the part-time component of our Exhibit Guide program and reorganized our Animal Interpretive Team to be more effective and efficient as we focus on guest experience while being fiscally responsible. Our organization remains deeply committed to our mission of conservation, education, and animal welfare, and we want to emphasize that these changes will not impact the high standard of care we provide for our animals. We believe that the changes enable us to continue delivering outstanding experiences to our visitors while ensuring the long-term sustainability of our institution.”
Additionally, starting September 5, 2023, the Memphis Zoo will only sell general admission tickets online through its website. These online-purchased tickets will be valid for one year from the date of purchase. The move is aimed at streamlining entry and prioritizing accessibility for general admission ticket holders and zoo members. While online purchases are encouraged, there will still be a ticket booth for on-site purchases, and certain ticket types will continue to be sold in person.
