Zoo Foodservice, Retail Merchandise & Admissions / Ticketing Operations

The City of Waco, operating as Cameron Park Zoo, is seeking a qualified firm to manage all food‑service, catering, retail merchandise, and ticketing operations on the zoo campus. The contract is a long‑term partnership (up to 10 years with five optional one‑year renewals) that requires the operator to run existing venues (Plaza Café, Treetops Café, Zootique gift store, Penguin Rondavel, Pavilion concessions) and to provide ticketing services, while adhering to sustainable business practices and potentially hiring existing zoo staff. The award will be based on operational concepts, financial strength, experience, proposed revenue share, and alignment with the zoo’s mission. • Scope includes daily food‑service, retail merchandising, admissions & ticketing management across multiple locations on a 52‑acre zoo. • Contract term: up to 10 years, with five 1‑year renewal options. • Operator must hold all required permits, licenses, and insurance. • Evaluation criteria cover innovation, guest experience, financial model (rent/commission), past relevant experience, and willingness to invest in the zoo. • Submission deadline: 2:00 PM CT, Nov 6 2026; pre‑proposal meetings Oct 15 (virtual) and Oct 22 (on‑site). • Final award decision expected by Dec 15 2026.