Swiss Zoos Face Financial Hurdles Despite High Visitor Numbers
Zoo Basel and Tierpark Goldau, two popular Swiss zoos, are facing financial challenges despite attracting millions of visitors annually. Both institutions rely heavily on admissions and donations to maintain their operations and invest in animal enclosures.
Zoo Basel, organised as a non-profit stock corporation, has a long waiting list for shares. It charges 21 francs for admission, its main source of income. The zoo also relies on major patronage and many smaller donations to avoid bank loans for construction projects. It last raised ticket prices in 2023, considering regional purchasing power.
Tierpark Goldau, on the other hand, is considering a yahoo finance price increase to ensure financial sustainability. It currently charges 25 francs for admission. Both zoos account for their animal population at a symbolic one franc each.
Donations are crucial for both zoos to cover investments in animal enclosures. Zoo Basel's largest donors are major patrons and smaller contributors, while Tierpark Goldau's main donor is the Fondation Goldauer Tierpark. Despite their financial challenges, both zoos remain committed to their missions, attracting millions of visitors annually without being profit-driven.
