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The Lead Joins Nineteen Group’s Growing Retail Portfolio to Expand Its Reach Across Retail Leadership
January 2026, Boston, MA – The Lead, the fast-growing portfolio of executive-level brand and retail leadership events and forums focused on the strategies, technology, and operating models shaping modern consumer businesses, today announced it has been acquired by Nineteen Group, supporting the continued growth and expansion of The Lead’s flagship events and community of senior brand and retail leaders.
“The Lead has built an influential community of senior brand and retail decision-makers,” said Mary Larkin, President, Nineteen Group Americas. “It is a core part of how Nineteen Group is establishing its presence in the U.S. retail events market serving senior leaders navigating consumer, technology, and organizational transformation.”
Since its founding, The Lead has experienced consistent growth, with its flagship The Lead Summit becoming a leading gathering in New York City for more than 3,000 senior executives, director-level and above, across brand, retail, technology-enabled commerce, strategy, marketing, ecommerce, and customer experience. The next edition of The Lead Summit will be held in New York City from May 20–21, 2026.
The Lead portfolio includes The Lead Summit, The Direct 60 Forum, The D60 NEXT Forum, and The Foremost 50 Forum, alongside standout editorial offerings including the Foremost 50 List, Direct 60 List and D60 NEXT Lists – as well as The Indicator, which reaches thousands of senior retail executives each week.
“The Lead was created to elevate the conversation for senior leaders who are shaping the future of brands and retail,” said Noah Gellman, CEO of The Lead. “Joining Nineteen Group gives us the ability to scale our core events, deepen engagement with our audience, and expand thoughtfully into new markets while preserving the quality and relevance that sets The Lead apart. I look forward to our partnership and to continuing to build The Lead as we expand its impact and reach.”
The Lead will continue to operate under its existing brands, maintaining continuity for attendees, partners, and sponsors. As part of Nineteen Group, The Lead will remain focused on growing its flagship events, expanding its forum series, and identifying new opportunities to serve senior brand and retail executives.
“This acquisition reflects our approach to supporting founder-led events with strong leadership and real community impact,” said Peter Jones, CEO, Nineteen Group. “The Lead’s momentum in the U.S. market and clarity of purpose make it a compelling addition to the Group.”
The Lead was represented by Jeff Gruenhut of Grimes, McGovern & Associates. Nineteen Group was advised by Plural Strategy on the transaction and is backed by Phoenix Equity Partners.