Marketing English in Ireland (MEI) will now be known as English Education Ireland – a change the organisation said reflected its “broadened scope and vision” as a lobbying group and leader in professional development, representation and quality assurance in the field.

“This rebrand marks a significant milestone in the association’s evolution, reflecting its expanded mission and the growing importance of Ireland as a premier destination for English language learning,” the organisation said in a statement announcing the move on August 22.

It hoped the “new brand identity” would highlight the country as a “leading destination for [ELE], renowned for its high-quality language schools, excellent student experience, and industry collaboration”.

“Our rebrand celebrates not just a change in name, but a transformation in our identity and mission,” said English Language Ireland CEO Lorcan O’Connor Lloyd.

“Today, we are an integral part of Ireland’s education sector, advocating for excellence in English language education, promoting Ireland as quality driven study abroad destination, and representing our members needs on a variety of sectoral issues.”

The rebrand also includes an updated logo, drawing on the country’s “rich cultural heritage while adopting a contemporary design that symbolises growth, energy, and inclusivity”.

The ELE body said it was “poised to embark on a new chapter”, pledging to work closely with the Irish government, international partners and other stakeholders to “further elevate Ireland’s standing as a top destination for learning English”.

Our rebrand celebrates not just a change in name, but a transformation in our identity and mission

Lorcan O’Connor Lloyd, English Education Ireland

Last month, The PIE News reported that ELE schools in Ireland had seen a decline in sales of up to 20% in key markets – with some having to close their facilities.

At the time, O’Connor Lloyd said that Ireland’s ELE market had seen a speedy post-Covid recovery as students returned to study in the country after the pandemic. But the growth soon levelled off, leading to a 10-20% decline in the junior summer and adult markets, he added.