WASHINGTON —National Geographic has selected International Greetings USA to develop a line of stationery, cards and gift and school supplies for its National Geographic and National Geographic Kids brands for North America. Products are scheduled to debut at retail in late 2011.

Under this multiyear licensing agreement, National Geographic and International Greetings USA will team up to launch an extensive collection of paper-based products, drawing on National Geographic’s vast expertise in exploration, world cultures, nature and wildlife. The collections will feature greeting cards, stationery, notebooks and journals, as well as home office supplies, school supplies and specialty gift containers.

National Geographic’s net proceeds support the Society’s exploration, conservation, research and education programs.

“For more than a century, our explorers have traveled the planet and shared amazing natural treasures and the unique appeal of many different cultures. This program celebrates these discoveries and the wonders of our world,” said Krista Newberry, vice president of National Geographic Licensing. “As one of the leading high-quality, design-driven manufacturers in this category of merchandise, International Greetings USA is the ideal partner for this initiative.” “We are excited to partner with one of the world’s largest scientific and educational organizations,” said Lawrence Louis, president of International Greetings USA. “With unique access to the National Geographic archives, International Greetings looks forward to introducing consumers to exciting new designs and products.” About National Geographic The National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to “increase and diffuse geographic knowledge,” the Society’s mission is to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 400 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,600 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com. About International Greetings USA International Greetings USA is one of the country’s leading designers, innovators and manufacturers of gift wrap, stationery, greeting cards and calendars, supplying all sectors of the U.S. retail market with trend-leading designs and products. Founded in 1903, the company is a wholly owned subsidiary of International Greetings PLC, a publicly traded company on the London Stock Exchange. For more information, visit www.internationalgreetings.co.uk.