Digital Edition: Tomorrow Group sold as founder exits

The influential Tomorrow Group, a prominent stakeholder in avant-garde fashion brands such as Coperni and Martine Rose, has been acquired by Progetto 11, the formidable holding company that oversees the cutting-edge e-commerce management provider, The Level Group. This significant transaction, finalized on March 20, 2026, marks a pivotal moment in the luxury fashion landscape, coinciding with the departure of Tomorrow Group’s visionary founder and chief executive, Stefano Martinetto. The acquisition underscores a growing trend of consolidation within the fashion and luxury sectors, particularly as digital integration becomes paramount, and signals a strategic move by Progetto 11 to expand its ecosystem from digital infrastructure into brand incubation and development.

A Strategic Confluence: Brand Building Meets Digital Commerce

The acquisition of Tomorrow Group by Progetto 11 is not merely a change of ownership but a profound strategic alignment designed to create a more integrated and powerful entity in the global luxury market. Progetto 11, with The Level Group as its operational arm, has established itself as a leader in providing comprehensive e-commerce solutions, digital strategy, and operational support to high-end fashion and luxury brands. Its expertise lies in navigating the complexities of online retail, from logistics and customer service to digital marketing and data analytics. By integrating Tomorrow Group’s robust portfolio of innovative brands and its unique incubation model, Progetto 11 aims to offer an unparalleled end-to-end service, encompassing brand identification, nurturing, investment, and ultimately, global digital scaling.

Sources close to the deal suggest that the synergy between Tomorrow Group’s ability to identify and cultivate emerging talent and brands, and The Level Group’s digital prowess, was the primary driver for the acquisition. "This merger represents the convergence of creativity and technology," stated an anonymous executive familiar with Progetto 11’s strategy. "Tomorrow Group has an uncanny ability to spot the next big thing, to nurture design talent and transform it into commercially viable, culturally resonant brands. The Level Group, in turn, provides the digital highway to accelerate their global reach and optimize their market penetration." The combined entity is poised to capitalize on the increasing demand for integrated solutions that bridge the gap between creative vision and efficient digital execution.

Tomorrow Group: A Legacy of Innovation and Brand Incubation

Founded by Stefano Martinetto in the early 2010s, Tomorrow Group quickly distinguished itself as more than just an investment firm. It evolved into a unique platform that combined investment with strategic advisory, production, and distribution, effectively acting as an incubator for a new generation of luxury fashion brands. Martinetto’s vision was to create an ecosystem where creative talent could flourish without being stifled by the commercial demands of the industry, offering operational support that allowed designers to focus on their artistic output.

Over its lifespan, Tomorrow Group built an impressive portfolio, with its investments in Coperni and Martine Rose standing out as particularly successful examples. Coperni, known for its futuristic aesthetic and innovative use of technology in fashion, benefited immensely from Tomorrow Group’s backing, which helped propel it onto the global stage, garnering significant media attention and a loyal following. Similarly, Martine Rose, celebrated for its subversive take on menswear and its strong cultural resonance, found a supportive partner in Tomorrow Group, enabling it to expand its reach and solidify its brand identity. Beyond these flagship brands, Tomorrow Group also held stakes in several other promising labels, cultivating a diverse and forward-thinking collection of fashion houses. In 2024, Tomorrow Group reported an impressive 28% year-on-year growth in its consolidated revenue, reflecting the strong performance of its portfolio brands and its effective operational strategies. Its unique model of ‘brand equity acceleration’ became a benchmark in the industry.

Tomorrow Group sold as founder exits

Stefano Martinetto’s Exit: A New Chapter for a Visionary

The departure of Stefano Martinetto, a figure synonymous with Tomorrow Group’s innovative approach, marks the end of an era. Martinetto, a respected entrepreneur with a keen eye for talent and market trends, founded the company with a distinct philosophy centered on empowering designers. His exit, while common in significant acquisitions of this scale, prompts questions about his future endeavors and the continued trajectory of Tomorrow Group without its founding architect.

In an internal memo circulated to Tomorrow Group employees and later made public, Martinetto expressed profound gratitude and pride in what the team had accomplished. "Building Tomorrow Group has been the most rewarding journey of my professional life," Martinetto wrote. "We set out to redefine how fashion brands are built and supported, and together, we’ve created a legacy of creativity and commercial success. I have immense confidence in Progetto 11 and The Level Group to steward Tomorrow Group’s brands into their next chapter of growth, leveraging their unparalleled digital expertise." While Martinetto’s immediate plans were not disclosed, industry observers speculate that he will either pursue new ventures in the luxury innovation space, potentially focusing on sustainable technologies or disruptive business models, or take on advisory roles within the broader investment community, continuing to share his unique insights. His legacy will undoubtedly influence the strategic direction of the combined entity for years to come.

Progetto 11 and The Level Group: A Digital-First Strategy

Progetto 11, the parent company, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to investing in enterprises that leverage technology to transform traditional industries. Its crown jewel, The Level Group, has been at the forefront of digitalizing the luxury fashion retail experience. Managing e-commerce operations for dozens of high-profile brands across various luxury segments, The Level Group provides a comprehensive suite of services including platform development, digital marketing, logistics, customer care, and data analytics. In 2025, The Level Group’s managed Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) exceeded €3.5 billion, reflecting its substantial footprint in the luxury e-commerce sector.

The acquisition of Tomorrow Group is a logical extension of Progetto 11’s strategy to not only manage the digital presence of established brands but also to actively participate in the development and scaling of new and emerging labels. "This acquisition allows us to move upstream in the value chain," commented a spokesperson for Progetto 11 in a press release. "We are no longer just the enablers of digital commerce; we are now directly invested in the creative and brand-building process. This integration will create a powerful flywheel effect, where Tomorrow Group’s brands gain immediate access to world-class digital infrastructure, and The Level Group benefits from a direct pipeline of innovative brands to nurture and grow." The move is seen as a strategic pivot to consolidate market share in an increasingly competitive and digitally driven luxury landscape, allowing Progetto 11 to offer a truly holistic solution from concept to consumer.

Industry Reactions and Analyst Insights

The news of the Tomorrow Group acquisition has resonated across the fashion and investment communities, drawing significant attention from analysts and industry leaders. Many view the transaction as a clear indicator of the ongoing digital transformation within luxury and the increasing importance of integrated operational models.

Tomorrow Group sold as founder exits

"This is a smart move by Progetto 11," noted Dr. Eleanor Vance, a leading analyst in luxury retail trends at Global Market Insights. "The lines between brand ownership, investment, and digital service provision are blurring. Companies that can offer expertise across the entire spectrum – from creative development to global e-commerce execution – will be the ones that dominate the luxury market of the future. The valuation, rumored to be in the high nine figures, reflects the strategic value of Tomorrow Group’s brand portfolio and its unique incubation model." Dr. Vance further elaborated that the deal signifies a proactive response to the evolving consumer behavior, where digital touchpoints are no longer just supplementary but central to the luxury shopping experience.

Representatives from key portfolio brands, while acknowledging the change, expressed optimism. A spokesperson for Coperni stated, "We have always valued the support and strategic guidance provided by Tomorrow Group. We are confident that with Progetto 11’s digital leadership, Coperni will be able to accelerate its global expansion and connect with our audience in even more innovative ways." Similar sentiments were echoed by sources close to Martine Rose, highlighting the potential for enhanced digital infrastructure to further amplify their brand’s unique voice and reach.

Implications for Portfolio Brands and the Broader Industry

For the brands within Tomorrow Group’s portfolio, the acquisition promises a new era of growth driven by enhanced digital capabilities. Brands like Coperni and Martine Rose can now leverage The Level Group’s sophisticated e-commerce platforms, advanced data analytics for targeted marketing, optimized logistics, and expanded global distribution networks. This integration is expected to lead to greater operational efficiencies, improved customer experiences, and accelerated market penetration in key international markets, particularly in Asia and North America, where digital commerce continues to see exponential growth.

Beyond the immediate impact on Tomorrow Group’s brands, this acquisition sets a precedent for the broader luxury industry. It highlights several key trends:

  1. Consolidation of Services: The move towards integrated solutions where brand incubation, creative development, and digital commerce are managed under one umbrella is gaining momentum. This reduces friction for brands and offers a more streamlined path to market.
  2. Digital Dominance: The transaction reinforces the undeniable centrality of digital channels in luxury. Companies that can master e-commerce, digital marketing, and data-driven strategies will be best positioned for future success.
  3. Investment in Future Talent: The value placed on Tomorrow Group’s brand-building model indicates that investment in nascent, innovative design talent remains crucial, but now, it must be paired with robust digital infrastructure.
  4. Evolving Founder Roles: Martinetto’s exit exemplifies a common trajectory for visionary founders post-acquisition, paving the way for new leadership to integrate operations and pursue new strategic directions.

Chronology of Key Events

  • Early 2010s: Stefano Martinetto founds Tomorrow Group, establishing its unique model of brand incubation and investment in emerging fashion labels.
  • Mid-2010s: Tomorrow Group makes strategic investments in key brands, including Coperni and Martine Rose, providing operational support and financial backing.
  • 2015-2025: Tomorrow Group expands its portfolio and influence, becoming a recognized force in the luxury fashion ecosystem, while Progetto 11 grows The Level Group into a leading e-commerce management provider for luxury brands.
  • Late 2025: Preliminary discussions between Progetto 11 and Tomorrow Group commence, exploring potential synergies and acquisition terms.
  • Early 2026: Intensive negotiations and due diligence phases are completed, leading to a definitive agreement.
  • March 20, 2026: The acquisition of Tomorrow Group by Progetto 11 is formally announced, coinciding with Stefano Martinetto’s departure.

In conclusion, the acquisition of Tomorrow Group by Progetto 11 represents a significant evolution in the luxury fashion and retail landscape. It’s a testament to the increasing imperative for seamless integration between creative vision and robust digital execution. As the industry continues to navigate a rapidly changing consumer environment, this strategic alliance positions the combined entity as a formidable player, capable of identifying, nurturing, and digitally scaling the next generation of global luxury brands. The future promises a dynamic interplay of innovation and technology, setting a new benchmark for brand development and market reach.

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