American non-profit scientific and educational institution National Geographic has entered into a licensing deal with the Indian-based hand-knotted carpet maker Jaipur Rugs, granting rights to sell products from the former’s Home Collection in North America.
As per the multiyear agreement, National Geographic and the rug manufacturer, which owns a distribution base in Atlanta, will jointly create a collection of colourful rugs inspired by the archived photographic images taken by the organisation’s explorers.
“Jaipur is one of the leaders in the textile industry, and we are excited to work with them to bring some of our incredible photography and artwork to consumers on rugs, pillows and poufs. For more than a century, National Geographic explorers and photographers have travelled the world to capture stunning images and collect compelling stories,” Krista Newberry, the institution’s senior vice president of licensing, North America, said while commenting on the new association in a press release.
Asha Chaudhary, Jaipur Rug’s chief executive officer, said, “Jaipur is excited to collaborate with National Geographic, because it offers an opportunity to express a unique fusion of art forms. Both companies use our own creative mediums to not only capture the word’s stories, but also share them through tangible, enduring art forms. We are thrilled to be able to infuse such passion into a collection for our consumers to connect with and bring into their homes.”
The collection will debut at the spring edition of international home furnishing trade event High Point Market, due to take place from April 18 to 23, 2015 in North Carolina. The range will be sold through retailers and trading partners in the US and Canada sometime during this month. (PB)
