Item - 2026.ZB24.4

The Chief Transformation Officer, Toronto Zoo, recommends that the Board of Management of the Toronto Zoo:  

1. Authorize the Chief Transformation Officer, or designate, to negotiate and execute an agreement with Genumark for the provision of uniform program services for the Toronto Zoo, in an amount not to exceed $550,000.00 excluding HST, for a one-year term commencing November 1, 2026, with the option to extend for up to two (2) additional one-year terms, on terms satisfactory to the Chief Transformation Officer or designate and in a form satisfactory to the City Solicitor.

This report recommends that the Toronto Zoo enter into an agreement with Genumark Promotional Merchandise Inc. (Genumark) for the provision of uniform program services to modernize and streamline the procurement, ordering, inventory management and distribution of Zoo uniforms.

The proposed program will provide an online ordering platform, employee point allocations, manager and supervisor approval capabilities, inventory management and replenishment, reporting, and Zoo-specific garment and branding options.

The cost of the new Uniform Program has been incorporated into the Toronto Zoo’s 2027 Operating Budget submission.

The maximum estimated gross cost to equip all Toronto Zoo permanent and on-permanent staff with new uniform items is $550,000. The impact of this cost will be managed by phasing implementation over a multi-year period.

Final program financials will be confirmed during the program design phase based on approved employee point allocations, the final garment catalogue and the transition timeline for the new uniform program subject to cost considerations and operational needs.