Cengage Learning to Acquire National Geographic School Publishing

(Press Release) Stamford, CT, June 24, 2011—Cengage Learning today announced the signing of a definitive agreement that significantly expands its strategic partnership with the National Geographic Society (NGS) including the acquisition of the NGS school publishing unit and extended use of the NGS brand. The new agreement reflects a truly precedent-setting relationship between a leading global provider of innovative teaching, learning and research solutions, and the world's pre-eminent educational and scientific media organization with demonstrated success in the classroom.

Since 2007, Cengage Learning and NGS have collaborated to produce English language learning materials for kindergarten through adult education in the global marketplace with great success. The newly expanded relationship will further leverage NGS's world-class content - including images, video and articles - and Cengage Learning's pedagogical expertise in the U.S. and global education market.

Specifically, under the terms of the agreement, Cengage Learning will acquire National Geographic's digital and print school publishing unit, which includes the National Geographic Science series, an innovative core elementary science curriculum, National Geographic Explorer! Magazines, and Hampton Brown's literacy and language programs - resulting in the formation of a global literacy, English language learning and content publishing brand. As a result, educators, parents and students will benefit from a comprehensive portfolio of learning materials incorporating National Geographic's long tradition of quality, trust and inspiration with Cengage Learning's demonstrated track record of achievement in key learning metrics. The transaction is expected to close after the satisfaction of regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

"Cengage Learning is very proud to partner with the National Geographic Society, one of the most recognized and respected organizations in the world," said Ron Dunn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cengage Learning. "This expanded partnership teams Cengage Learning with the National Geographic global brand and content assets in a powerful way that further strengthens our existing English language learning business and enriches our full range of educational solutions."