116-117 LSB ZSL (3 - SL).qxp_NEW LSB 2008 GRID 30/04/2026 21:33 Page 1
IN CONVERSATION WITH… ZSL
Creative by
nature Inset: ZSL is running a packed programme of events in 2026 to mark its bicentenary. Below: The Make Believe Ideas’ ‘Zoo Crew’ collection with London Zoo aims to inspire and educate the next generation of animal lovers through a sensory-rich range spanning plush, stationery and books.
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ince it was founded in 1826 for “the general advancement of zoological science”, ZSL has grown into a global force for change. Through its conservation zoos – Whipsnade and London Zoos (due to celebrate its own bicentenary in 2028) – its world-leading Institute of Zoology, field projects in more than 80 countries, its education department and immersive role play experience ZooTown, the organisation works every day to bring species back from the brink, restore habitats and inspire people to care and act for nature. “The bicentenary is an extraordinary milestone for us,” says ZSL brand licensing manager, Abbie Taylor. “It gives us the chance to celebrate not only 200 years of scientific firsts and cultural impact, but also the stories and people who helped shape ZSL into the organisation it is today.”
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LICENSING SOURCE BOOK 2026
International conservation charity ZSL is marking its 200th anniversary with a yearlong programme of activities and events celebrating its contributions to protecting wildlife and habitats, science and culture. Brand licensing manager, Abbie Taylor tells LSB how the licensing programme is leveraging this milestone, through storyled, commercially compelling collaborations that extend its important message to new audiences. Throughout the year, anniversary activity will be based around diverse themes such as Women and Wildlife, Popular Culture (including London Zoo’s role as a music video location and Harry Potter film setting), and ZSL’s remarkable architectural and design heritage. These themes will run across exhibitions, events, collaborations and online content such as Wild Talks Lectures and the Wildest Moments Podcast, hosted by Ben Fogle. This packed programme offers a strong backdrop for licensing collaborations, unlocking compelling opportunities for partners to develop products that reflect both ZSL’s history and its modern-day impact. “ZSL has almost two centuries of remarkable stories to tell: pioneering scientific discoveries, iconic animals like Winnie the bear who inspired Winnie the Pooh, historic keeper diaries, vintage posters, early photography and even architectural firsts,” says Abbie. “All of this gives partners the opportunity to craft collections that aren’t just beautiful, but also genuinely resonant – products that celebrate our heritage and communicate our impact. “We’re seeing partners reimagine artwork and stories from our incredible Zoological Library, developing sustainable ranges inspired by the species we protect and creating experiences that feel genuinely new yet remain rooted in our history.” Licensees can also draw on ZSL’s Heritage Style Guide, which includes historical animal illustrations, early photography and typography and architectural details that translate beautifully across