Company C "Rugmark Foundation" November 15th, 2005

11/15/2005 Company C Brings Rugmark Certification To Their Colorful Designs

Washington D.C., November 15: Company C recently signed with Rugmark bringing child labor-free certification to a broad consumer base. With over 600 retailers nationwide and prominent placement in major catalogs such as Neiman Marcus, Garnet Hill and LL Bean, Company C brings buyers at these venues assurance that handmade rugs are created without the use of child labor. This certification marks Company C’s production integrity and demonstrates their commitment to bring hope through education for children in weaving communities.

Walter and Christine Chapin founded Company C in 1994 with the goal of designing and producing extraordinary hand-tufted rugs made of 100% wool from India. They were originally drawn to the Rugmark-certification out of desire to give back to the communities in India where the majority of the company’s rugs are made. Chapin believes fostering healthy communities begins by taking children off the looms and putting them into schools, “Nothing is more important than providing educational opportunities for children who might otherwise be forced to do manual work.” In 2004, licensee fees and retail sales of Rugmark rugs helped generate funds to educate over 3,500 children in South Asia.

Joining other Rugmark licensees, Company C is taking a stand as an industry leader to transform the handmade rug market. Unlike other self-stamping mechanisms, participation in Rugmark requires the factory doors of Company C’s manufacturers be open for on-going monitoring and inspection. Chapin explains, “Company C will actively use the Rugmark label and support the visibility of this organization. Our consumers care about child labor practices and social responsibility. By seeing the Rugmark label, our customers will know they are making a difference in the life of a child in India.” Rugmark, frequently cited as a model for industry certification, is a consumer’s best assurance that no child labor was used in the manufacturing of a rug.

Company C has built a name that is synonymous with colorful design, wonderful detail, and now with Rugmark® certification, social responsibility. Their flagship store is located in Concord, New Hampshire, with retailers throughout the United States. Company C recently launched a store-in-a-store in conjunction with Kate’s Paperie in New York City.

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Rugmark is a nonprofit organization working to end illegal child labor in the carpet industry and offer educational opportunities to children in India, Nepal and Pakistan. And the Rugmark® label is your best assurance that no illegal child labor was used in the manufacture of a carpet or rug. To date, over 3,500 children have been freed from the looms and many more have been enrolled in one of 15 Rugmark-sponsored schools throughout the region. For more information, please contact Megan Nelson at megan@rugmark.org call (202) 347-4205, or visit www.rugmark.org.

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Company C was founded in 1994 by Walter and Christine Chapin with the goal of creating extraordinary rug designs, with an uncommon design twist that offered a refreshing alternative to the traditional. Soon Company C was supplying major mail order catalogs and better home furnishings stores. In 2003, Company C expanded the line to include decorative bedding. Company C adopted the mantra of designs for colorful living, a philosophy as much as a product strategy. Today, Company C has over 600 active dealers nationwide and is headquartered in Concord, New Hampshire, where the company operates its design studio, distribution center and 8,000 square foot retail store. For additional information or to view the full product line, please visit www.companyc.com or contact Customer Service at 800.818.8288.

Rugmark and Company C Photos Available Upon Request