List of Ecommerce Events in New York City – 2025

New York City stands as the epicenter of ecommerce innovation in 2025, hosting major conferences, trade shows, and networking opportunities that draw retail and digital marketing professionals from across the globe. With 40,000+ retail professionals attending the largest events and dozens of specialized summits throughout the year, NYC offers unmatched opportunities for ecommerce brands to learn cutting-edge strategies, forge partnerships, and stay ahead of industry trends. Whether you're a DTC founder seeking growth tactics, an enterprise retailer exploring AI solutions, or a marketing director focused on customer acquisition, this guide covers the essential ecommerce events and practical planning tips for 2025. For brands looking to maximize event ROI by capturing and converting leads generated from conference networking, Opensend Connect helps identify high-intent website visitors after they return from events.

Key Takeaways

• NYC hosts 11+ major ecommerce conferences in 2025, with peak activity between May and October
• NRF Retail's Big Show remains the world's largest retail conference, drawing over 40,000 attendees in January
• Many events offer free or discounted admission for qualifying retailers, brands, and DTC companies
• CommerceNext and GROW NY provide the most tactical content for ecommerce growth and marketing automation
• Midtown Manhattan hosts the majority of events, with excellent public transit access via multiple subway lines
• Pre-registration and early booking are essential, as travel credits and hosted programs have limited capacity

1. NRF 2025: Retail's Big Show

NRF Retail's Big Show remains the world's largest retail conference, transforming the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center into a massive showcase of retail technology and innovation each January. The 2025 edition runs January 12-14 at 429 11th Avenue, drawing 40,000+ retail professionals and serving as the industry's definitive kickoff event for the year.

What to Expect:

• Exhibitor floor: 1,000+ exhibitors showcasing retail technology solutions
• Educational content: 175+ keynote sessions and panels across multiple tracks
• Featured speakers: Executives from Target, Walmart, Sephora, and other major retailers
• Focus areas: AI in retail, digital transformation, customer experience, omnichannel strategies
• Startup Hub: Dedicated space for emerging companies and new-to-market technology

The conference features an Opening Party on January 11 and the Vendors in Partnership Awards ceremony. Pre-show events begin January 10-11 for early arrivals. For retailers and ecommerce professionals focused on lead generation, the networking opportunities at NRF provide direct access to decision-makers across the retail technology ecosystem.

2. The Lead Summit

The Lead Summit brings brand and retail innovators to Pier 36 on Manhattan's Lower East Side for two days of actionable insights and curated networking. Running July 16-17, 2025, this event at 299 South Street draws 3,000+ attendees and 180+ speakers for programming focused on customer engagement and retail innovation.

Event Highlights:

• Attendance scale: 200+ sponsors and solution providers on the exhibition floor
• Innovation Village: Dedicated showcase area for emerging startups
• Curated workshops: Hands-on sessions and industry-specific assemblies
• Meetings Program: Free for qualifying brands/retailers with potential travel reimbursement up to $1,000

The waterfront venue at Pier 36 provides an iconic NYC skyline backdrop while facilitating meaningful connections between brands and solution providers. For marketing teams focused on customer retention strategies, the Summit's programming covers engagement tactics and loyalty frameworks applicable to both emerging and established brands.

3. Savant Events New York

Savant Events New York brings C-level executives and ecommerce decision-makers to Current at Pier 59 on June 6, 2025. This exclusive one-day event at Chelsea Piers focuses on the future of ecommerce and AI implementation at the enterprise level.

Executive Programming:

• Speaker caliber: Executives from Unilever, Alibaba Group, and Estée Lauder
• Focus areas: AI-powered commerce, digital transformation, emerging technologies
• Format: Invitation-focused with curated attendee selection
• Networking: Executive-level connections in an intimate setting

The Savant Events format emphasizes quality over quantity, making it ideal for senior leaders seeking strategic conversations rather than broad exposure. Registration details are available by request through the event organizers.

4. CommerceNext Growth Show

CommerceNext Growth Show stands as the premier conference for ecommerce growth and marketing professionals, running June 24-26, 2025, at the New York Hilton Midtown. Located at 1345 6th Avenue, this three-day event draws 2,700+ attendees and features programming specifically designed for digital marketing leaders focused on customer acquisition and retention.

Conference Features:

• Expert speakers: 150+ speakers across 75+ action-packed sessions
• Featured brands: Walmart, Shein, Ulta, Walgreens, Coach, Albertsons, J.Crew, Petco
• Core topics: AI, omnichannel retail, conversion rate optimization, loyalty programs
• Hosted program: Travel reimbursement up to $2,000 for qualifying participants
• Application deadline: May 23, 2025, for travel credit consideration

CommerceNext operates as a year-round community, not just an annual event. The organization hosts Wednesday webinar series at 2pm ET and in-market dinner events throughout the year. For teams working on email marketing strategies and marketing automation, CommerceNext provides immediately applicable tactics from brands achieving measurable growth results.

Session Tracks:

• Marketing automation and personalization strategies
• Customer journey optimization frameworks
• Email and SMS best practices
• Omnichannel engagement tactics
• AI-powered personalization implementation

5. DigiMarCon New York

DigiMarCon New York returns for its annual edition on May 15-16, 2025, at the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge. This hybrid conference offers both in-person attendance and virtual pass with video on demand options for digital marketing professionals across all experience levels.

Programming Highlights:

• Format options: In-person attendance or virtual participation with on-demand access
• Educational content: Master classes, keynote sessions, and hands-on workshops
• Focus areas: AI integration, Web3 applications, privacy-first marketing strategies
• Exhibition hall: Solution providers and marketing technology vendors
• Networking events: Luncheons and cocktail receptions for attendee connections

The conference covers broad digital marketing territory including content marketing, social media advertising, and performance marketing. For marketers focused on remarketing and retargeting, DigiMarCon sessions address emerging technologies and privacy-compliant approaches to audience targeting. TECHSPO New York, a technology expo, runs concurrently with the marketing conference.

6. Pulse eCommerce Summit NYC

Pulse eCommerce Summit makes its NYC debut on July 17, 2025, at Lavan Midtown, bringing a focused, tactical format to 641 W 42nd Street. Organized by Vervaunt, this one-day event draws 300+ senior attendees from North American ecommerce operations for peer-level discussions and actionable insights.

Summit Focus Areas:

• Internationalization strategies: Expanding ecommerce operations across borders
• Customer acquisition: Performance marketing and new customer capture
• Roadmapping: Q3/Q4 initiative planning and prioritization
• Measurement: Attribution modeling and performance analytics
• Product management: Ecommerce platform optimization

The intimate format facilitates meaningful conversations between VPs and department heads in ecommerce, digital transformation, logistics, and customer engagement. Free admission for qualifying ecommerce retailers makes Pulse accessible for brands seeking tactical value without significant budget commitment.

7. Affiliate Summit East

Affiliate Summit East brings the affiliate and partnership marketing community to the New York Marriott Marquis Times Square on August 4-5, 2025. As the original affiliate marketing event on the East Coast, this conference at 1535 Broadway draws 4,500+ attendees for networking, education, and deal-making.

Event Components:

• Educational content: 60+ expert sessions across six content tracks
• Meet Market: Famous speed networking format for rapid connection-building
• Exhibition floor: Hundreds of affiliate networks, software companies, and service providers
• Networking party: Day 1 evening event running until 8:00 PM
• VIP access: Premium passes include Creator Economy Live East (August 5-6)

For ecommerce brands building partnership channels, Affiliate Summit provides direct access to publishers, content creators, media buyers, and technology suppliers. The event covers lead generation tactics, performance tracking methodologies, and affiliate program optimization strategies applicable to both emerging and established ecommerce operations.

Attendee Categories:

• Affiliate marketers and publishers
• Ecommerce sellers and brand managers
• Media buyers and advertising professionals
• Content creators and influencers
• Network operators and technology suppliers

8. FUTR North America

FUTR North America brings future-focused retail discussions to Convene on September 4, 2025. Located at 117 West 46th Street in Midtown Manhattan, this one-day conference draws 400+ brands, retailers, and marketplaces for programming centered on emerging trends and next-generation commerce.

Conference Themes:

• AI-driven personalization: Implementing machine learning for customer experiences
• Next-gen supply chain: Technology innovations in logistics and fulfillment
• Consumer behavior: Understanding Gen Z and Gen Alpha shopping patterns
• Sustainable retail: Environmental responsibility in ecommerce operations
• Brand activism: Purpose-driven marketing and corporate responsibility

Free VIP tickets are available for qualifying retailers, brands, D2C companies, marketplaces, and agencies. The Midtown location offers excellent accessibility via B, D, F, M, 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W subway lines, with nearby parking at Icon Parking (113 W 46th St) and Quik Park (223 W 46th St). For teams exploring AI marketing tools, FUTR programming addresses practical implementation strategies beyond theoretical frameworks.

9. GROW NY

GROW NY delivers tactical, operator-focused content for ecommerce professionals on September 25-26, 2025, at Center415 in Midtown Manhattan. Located at 415 5th Avenue, this two-day event draws 800+ ecommerce leaders for programming designed to provide immediately applicable growth tactics.

Conference Experience:

• Speaker lineup: 50+ speakers across 70+ sessions
• Featured brands: Vuori, Lululemon, MeUndies, and other high-growth DTC companies
• Curated meetings: 1-on-1 matching between brands and relevant vendors
• Hands-on workshops: Interactive sessions with practical takeaways
• Networking atmosphere: All-day open bar, happy hour, and legendary afterparties

GROW NY distinguishes itself through a non-corporate, high-energy atmosphere that prioritizes actionable content over promotional presentations. Session topics include AI and automation, paid advertising strategies, attribution and measurement, customer retention tactics, post-purchase experience optimization, and AI-driven workflow implementation.

Attendance Details:

• Complimentary tickets available for qualified merchants (limited capacity)
• Application required through official website
• Up to $500 travel credit for qualifying attendees
• New exhibit space featuring latest ecommerce technology

Part of the GROW conference series since 2018, this event maintains selective merchant admission to ensure quality connections and relevant conversations. For brands focused on improving conversion rates, GROW NY programming addresses practical optimization strategies from operators achieving measurable results.

10. Digital Marketing World Forum (DMWF) North America

Digital Marketing World Forum returns to the Marriott Marquis Times Square on October 13-14, 2025. This comprehensive marketing technology conference at 1535 Broadway draws 1,500+ attendees with 100+ speakers and 70+ exhibitors across ten conference tracks.

Conference Tracks:

• AI & Marketing Automation
• Data, CRM & Insights
• Digital Brand & Communication Strategy
• Ecommerce & Omnichannel Marketing
• Influencer & Affiliate Marketing
• Social Media & Community Marketing
• Content Marketing & Video
• Digital Transformation & Leadership
• Customer Experience, Email & Automation
• Search, Media & Advertising

56% of attendees hold director-level positions or above, making DMWF ideal for senior marketing professionals seeking peer-level conversations. The October 13 networking drinks event provides additional connection opportunities. For teams working on email deliverability and automation strategies, the Customer Experience, Email & Automation track addresses current best practices and emerging approaches.

Pass Benefits:

• All conference track access
• Exhibition floor access
• Networking app for attendee connections
• Lunch and refreshments included
• Partner resources and e-books
• Networking reception attendance

11. Meet Magento New York

Meet Magento New York celebrates its 11th annual edition on October 27-28, 2025, at Civic Hall. Located at 124 East 14th Street, this two-day conference draws 500+ attendees specifically focused on Adobe Commerce and Magento platform development, optimization, and strategy.

Programming Structure:

• Speaker lineup: 40+ speakers across technical, business, and solutions tracks
• Sponsor ecosystem: 25+ sponsors including Adobe, PayPal, and scandiweb
• Extended programming: Events continue through October 31
• EVOLVE Summit: Partner Summit 2025 runs October 29-30

Free admission for merchants makes Meet Magento accessible for brands on the Adobe Commerce platform seeking optimization strategies and development insights. The independent session selection committee ensures no pay-to-speak arrangements, maintaining content quality across all tracks.

Session Tracks:

• Technical track: Magento advancements, development best practices, Hyvä frontend framework
• Business track: Merchant success stories, ecommerce strategy development
• Solutions track: Scalable growth tactics, actionable implementation insights

Featured topics include AI in ecommerce, performance optimization, hosting evolution, and trending ecommerce practices. For development teams and platform administrators, Meet Magento provides specialized technical content not available at general ecommerce conferences. Contact sponsors@meetmagentonyc.com for sponsorship inquiries or info@meetmagentonyc.com for general information.

Planning Your NYC Ecommerce Event Strategy

Successful conference attendance requires strategic planning beyond simply registering for events. NYC's concentrated ecommerce event calendar creates opportunities to maximize ROI through multi-event strategies and thoughtful preparation.

Transportation and Logistics:

• Subway access: Most Midtown venues accessible via multiple lines (B, D, F, M, 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W)
• Major hubs: Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal provide convenient access to all venue areas
• Hotel booking: Reserve early for June and September events when multiple conferences overlap
• Airport connections: JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark all serve NYC with public transit options

Maximizing Event Value:

• Pre-register for hosted programs and travel credit opportunities (deadlines often 30+ days before events)
• Download networking apps before arrival to schedule meetings in advance
• Identify target sessions and speakers aligned with your strategic priorities
• Bring sufficient business cards and prepare your elevator pitch for rapid introductions
• Follow up with new contacts within 48 hours using personalized email marketing approaches

For brands focused on converting event connections into customers, identity resolution tools help capture and engage prospects who visit your website after conference interactions. The concentrated networking at NYC events often generates significant website traffic from interested parties researching your solutions post-event.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the biggest ecommerce conferences in New York City in 2025?

The biggest ecommerce conferences in NYC for 2025 include NRF Retail's Big Show in January with 40,000+ attendees, Affiliate Summit East in August with 4,500+ attendees, The Lead Summit in July with 3,000+ attendees, and CommerceNext Growth Show in June with 2,700+ attendees. NRF remains the world's largest retail conference, while CommerceNext and GROW NY offer the most tactical content specifically for ecommerce marketing professionals.

Are there free ecommerce events in NYC for retailers and brands?

Yes, several NYC ecommerce events offer free or discounted admission for qualifying retailers and brands. Pulse eCommerce Summit provides free admission for ecommerce retailers. FUTR North America offers complimentary VIP tickets for retailers, brands, and D2C companies. GROW NY provides complimentary tickets for qualified merchants. Meet Magento NYC offers free admission for merchants on the Adobe Commerce platform. CommerceNext offers free attendance for qualifying retailers and brands through their hosted program.

How far in advance should I register for NYC ecommerce events?

Register 2-3 months in advance for the best rates and to secure hosted program spots with travel reimbursement benefits. CommerceNext's application deadline for travel credits is May 23, 2025, for their June 24-26 event. Early bird pricing typically ends 4-6 weeks before events. Affiliate Summit offers group discounts for team registrations. For major events like NRF in January, hotel accommodations should be booked even earlier due to high demand during the conference period.

Which NYC ecommerce events are best for DTC brands?

DTC brands should prioritize CommerceNext Growth Show in June for growth strategies and marketing automation, GROW NY in September for tactical operator content featuring brands like Vuori and MeUndies, and The Lead Summit in July for curated networking and actionable insights. These events feature speakers from successful DTC companies and programming specifically addressing direct-to-consumer challenges including customer acquisition, retention, and email marketing optimization.

What topics are typically covered at NYC ecommerce events?

NYC ecommerce events cover AI implementation, marketing automation, customer acquisition and retention, omnichannel strategies, conversion rate optimization, email and SMS marketing, affiliate and partnership marketing, customer experience optimization, data analytics, and emerging technologies like Web3. Technical events like Meet Magento NYC focus on platform development, while business-focused events like DMWF address broader digital marketing strategy across ten distinct tracks including ecommerce, content marketing, and social media.