Dublin Zoo has committed £450,000 (€571,380) to cover the operational costs and set-up of a new retail venture, Zoo2, to be based in Bewley's Cafe, Mary Street, Dublin.

The revenue from Zoo2's expected target sales of more than £1.5 million per annum will be channelled towards conservation and educational programmes at Dublin Zoo.

Themed as an African Savannah, the shop will be interactive and educational and will double as an agency for Dublin Zoo, selling admission tickets and memberships and arranging group parties.