May 2024
We are pleased to announce that ATC (ATC Language & Travel) and UK-based UKLC (UK Language Courses) have joined forces to create a strategic alliance. This brings together two of the largest independent language school operators in the sector and continues UKLC’s journey to create an Education Group of owner-managed and independent businesses.
The partnership has been secured by Ed Greevy, long-time owner of the family business ATC, selling his shares to UKLC.
Colm O’Byrne will remain with the business as Managing Director and retains his ownership stake. Colm will continue to oversee the day-to-day running of the ATC business, the planned expansion of group operations in Ireland, and will join the UKLC board.
Speaking about the partnership O’Byrne said “We knew when Ed decided he was going to sell his shares in ATC that we needed to find the right partner to run the business with. I am convinced we have found the right organisation in UKLC. Our cultures, approach and values fit perfectly together so we’re confident this is a hugely positive move for the future of ATC.”
Speaking about the sale of his stake in ATC, Ed Greevy commented: “It means a lot to me to see ATC going from strength to strength. After being unwell for a number of years, I made the tough decision to sell my shares to somebody who could come in to provide more support to the ATC team and build on the excellent work that has been done up to now.
Céline and the UKLC team very much have their core values aligned with ATC and are the ideal partner to come in and assist Colm in this task. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Colm for being an amazing partner over the last number of years. He has managed the day-to-day running of the business fantastically well, he is someone whose opinion I value greatly and whom I continuously look up to. Personally I am very excited to see what the future holds for ATC in partnership with UKLC.”
UKLC Group CEO Céline Aloé said “We are honoured to be joining forces with such a well-respected company that has a long-standing place in the Irish ELT market. As soon as we started to talk with Ed, we could see how well our values and outlook fit together. Both UKLC and ATC have flourished as owner-led industry leaders with similar customer bases, putting high quality and exceptional service at the heart of what they do. We look forward to strengthening both teams as part of our new group and planning an exciting future.”
The UKLC Group has plans to grow through partnerships, investment and acquisition but have no plans to merge operations between the UK & Ireland or for any of the group organisations. “The ambition is to create a group of companies that retain and look after their great people, loyal customers, established brands and uniqueness, then work together to open up new opportunities.” Continued Aloé.
We are very pleased to be partnering with UKLC and look forward to the exciting times ahead!
If you have any questions at all please do contact us on info@atcireland.ie
