ISM x Cologne Zoo

Cologne Zoo

ISM mascot GISMO meets up with real-life fellow flamingos at Cologne Zoo to support local initiatives.

ISM, the leading global trade fair for sweets and snacks, took on a unique partnership On World Flamingo Day. It has sponsored a group of flamingos at Cologne Zoo, emphasising its close relationship with its plush mascot, GISMO, which has been the face and heart of the ISM family since 2023.

GISMO, the bubbly flamingo with bright pink feathers, has conquered the hearts of the visitors.

"We are delighted that we were able to take on this sponsorship. Flamingos are not only impressive birds, but they also match the values of ISM perfectly: Uniqueness, courage, flexibility and resilience to assert oneself in a dynamic environment,” said Sabine Schommer, ISM Director.

“Our mascot, GISMO, is a symbol for these attributes. This sponsorship allows us to underline this connection further.”

Cologne Zoo was delighted about the new sponsorship.

“I sincerely thank ISM for taking over the sponsorship of the flamingos. This support in the scope of sponsorship is significant for Cologne Zoo,” said Prof. Theo B. Pagel, Director of Cologne Zoo.

“It enables us to continually improve the living conditions of the animals and further extend our education and species protection programmes.”

Cologne Zoo will also be present at ISM to draw attention to donation campaigns and sponsorships.

"The collaboration promises many interesting stories and information about the flamingo sponsorship and the plush mascot GISMO and supports the valuable work of Cologne Zoo.”

ISM values active support of local initiatives. For many years, it has donated to the Cologne Food Bank with monetary and in-kind donations. Supporting the Cologne Zoo also strengthened the connection between ISM and the city's location.

The next ISM is scheduled to take place in Cologne during the Sweet Week in February 2025.

More events here