A4LE and EDmarket Merger: What It Means for LEA and Our Members

In October 2025, our international organisation at Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) announced an important development: A4LE and EDmarket will merge to form a unified global organisation that brings together deep expertise in learning environment design, planning, and educational products.

This merger represents a significant shift for the North American sector, but for Learning Environments Australasia and our members across the region, very little will change in the short or medium term. Our relationship with A4LE remains strong, our commitments remain the same, and our ability to connect our members with international expertise will only grow.

Why the Merger Is Happening

The merger responds to the evolving needs of students, educators, and the broader learning environments industry. By joining forces, A4LE and EDmarket aim to:

• Strengthen global advocacy with a unified voice.
• Enhance professional development and certification pathways.
• Expand the international network of educators, designers, architects, planners, suppliers, and manufacturers.
• Create a single platform for major events, recognition programs, and resources.
• Foster innovation in the design and delivery of learning environments worldwide.

Timeline and Leadership

Both organisations have voted to proceed, with interim governance and legal integration beginning on 1 January 2026. Full consolidation is anticipated by early 2027.

Throughout 2026, leadership structures will remain unchanged. Voting rights are unaffected, and any future adjustments will be communicated well in advance. John Ramsey (A4LE) will serve as President & CEO during the transition, with Karen Prince (EDmarket) overseeing key integration processes.

Events, Programs and Certifications

For members, activities you know and value will continue unchanged:

• LearningSCAPES, EDspaces, and regional events will proceed as planned.
• Professional certifications such as ALEP® and ECLPS remain valid and supported.
• Publications, resources, and programs from both organisations will remain accessible, with integration occurring gradually over time.

What This Means for LEA

While the merger is a major organisational step for A4LE and EDmarket, its immediate impact on LEA will be minimal. Our programs, governance, events, and member experience continue as usual.

In fact, the merger is likely to broaden opportunities for LEA members, providing greater access to resources, knowledge, networks, and global perspectives. We will continue monitoring developments closely and will share updates as they become available.

Stay Informed

Updates will be provided to members as the process moves forward. The latest information from A4LE and EDmarket is also available here via the merger webpage.

Questions?

If you have any questions or would like more information, please feel free to contact the LEA Team at any time.