National Geographic-Maintaining the Gold Standard (1,449 words)

But it's not enough for a product just to match up with the mission; its vendor must be brand-worthy, too. Those hoping to provide catalog products must agree in writing to adhere to certain standards and practices, including research to ensure product accuracy, product testing, provision of references, and certification of fumigation for products made of wood sourced from overseas. These measures add another two weeks to the usual sourcing process and may explain why the company uses only about 10 percent of the product samples buyers bring back from shows, notes Amber Molholm, director of creative and merchandise planning.