Page 44 - Bookfield Zoo Chicago Annual Report 2024

FISCAL 2024 YEAR REVIEW

The Board of Trustees of the As we look to Fiscal 2025, management has taken a number of steps to drive
Chicago Zoological Society is pleased guest attendance increases, while closely managing and controlling operating
to report positive financial results for costs. Attendance drivers include having our very popular Dolphins in Action
the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024.* presentation for the full period, welcoming two koalas to the Zoo that will be
The results were driven by a number of on loan for two years from the San Diego Zoo, enhancing a number of animal
factors including higher than anticipated exhibits at the Hamill Family Play Zoo, and adding new animal exhibits such
CHINESE tax revenues presented from the as a North American Prairie Aviary.
EMPEROR NEWT Forest Preserves of Cook County, strong
Clouded Leopard Regarding longer-term considerations, a formal planning process was
philanthropic contribution levels, and a
Rain Forest launched this past year for a new Master Plan that will guide the development
continued focus on cost-containment efforts.
of the Zoo through our Centennial Celebration 2034. While we have made
From a guest services operating perspective, significant capital investment commitments in our Tropical Forests and Seven
the Zoo anticipated some challenges for Fiscal 2024 (“2024”) that would Seas exhibits referenced above, a greater strategic vision is being developed
have a negative impact on our attendance count and related revenues. to ensure that Brookfield Zoo Chicago remains at the forefront of zoo animal
However, actual 2024 attendance was less than 1 percent below budgeted care and welfare, with animal exhibits that provide a healthy, vibrant environ-
figures for the fiscal year. ment for our animals, and offer an exceptional experience for our guests.
The 2024 efforts included the kick off of the $66 million Tropical Forests The Society wishes to extend special thanks and appreciation to
construction project that affects a sizeable footprint at the center of the Zoo the Forest Preserves of Cook County, our public partner, as well as our
campus. In addition, the $10 million rehabilitation effort at the Seven Seas dedicated and generous Trustees, Women’s Board members, Governing
facility required closure of the facility for the majority of 2023 and relocation Member Ambassadors, and donors. Their support—as well as the invaluable
of our dolphins to another zoo. Despite the short-term negative effects contributions of our volunteers and staff—maintain the financial foundation
of these expansion and refurbishment efforts on 2024 guest counts, and integrity of the Society.
the long-term strategic outlook for enhanced guest experiences through
the new and upgraded animal exhibits is high.
The positive financial operating results for the fiscal year continue
to strengthen our solid balance sheet position. Cash and investment
Michael P. Emmert
values remain strong and given the robust returns generally seen in
Treasurer, Board of Trustees
the financial markets over the past year, we have seen our investment
Brookfield Zoo Chicago & Chicago Zoological Society
portfolio grow accordingly.

*The Financial highlights reflect the unaudited results and
financial presentations. Audited statements of financial
results are planned to be available in July 2024.

40 BROOKFIELD ZOO CHICAGO