Greeting card and stationery firm Portico has joined forces with Paper Island to become the latest licensee for its lifestyle brands Born to Shop and The Good Life.

The firm will be looking to create "attractive, highly commercial" ranges for retail in 2009 including calendars, diaries, social stationery, greeting cards, stationery-based gifting, wrap and bags.

"Portico Designs are absolutely delighted to announce the signing of two fabulous brands from Paper Island; the now truly evergreen and hugely popular Born to Shop - as a brand it speaks out to women everywhere with real honesty and humour, adding fun to everyday scenarios - and brand new for 2009 The Good Life, a fantastic concept with broad appeal that focuses on popular sentiments and beautiful artwork with a contemporary touch," said Carmen Long, director and head of stationery and gift at Portico.

"The partnership is really exciting, as in addition to the strength of the brands, Paper Island are a great company to work with, having a very forward thinking creative team behind the brands. So with our in-house design expertise and product development team, it's the perfect fit."