1905 New Media Acquires St. Louis Software Firm Lelander

Acquisition expands custom software, application development, and AI capabilities as 1905 New Media marks 120 years as a family-owned business

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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1905 New Media, a fourth-generation, family-owned integrated marketing agency and two-time Inc. 5000 honoree, has acquired Lelander, one of St. Louis's most respected web and software development firms. The acquisition significantly expands 1905 New Media's capabilities in advanced applications, software, and emerging AI-driven development, further strengthening its position as a premier integrated agency in the Midwest.

Why it matters

The acquisition allows 1905 New Media to take on more sophisticated app and software development projects, complementing its existing talent in creative, branding, data analytics, and AI strategy. It also provides access to a robust network of highly skilled contractors for specialized, off-hours, and overflow support, positioning the agency for continued growth and innovation.

The details

Lelander has earned a reputation for tackling complex digital challenges and building custom solutions. The acquisition brings Lelander's specialized development team to 1905 New Media, which will complement the agency's existing talent. As part of the deal, Lelander founder JP Revel is joining the 1905 New Media executive leadership team as Head of Technology, bringing decades of business ownership experience, people-first leadership, and deep technical expertise.

  • The acquisition closed on November 5, 2025.
  • 1905 New Media recently unveiled new branding and launched a new website in October 2025.

The players

1905 New Media

A fourth-generation, family-owned integrated marketing agency and two-time Inc. 5000 honoree, based in St. Louis.

Lelander

A highly respected web and software development firm known for building custom digital solutions and tackling complex technical challenges, based in St. Louis.

John Meilink

The President of 1905 New Media, a fourth-generation, family-owned company that serves businesses across St. Louis, Chicago, and beyond.

JP Revel

The founder of Lelander, who is joining the 1905 New Media executive leadership team as Head of Technology.

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What they’re saying

“Lelander has earned a reputation that speaks for itself. If you've ever heard someone say, 'That's a tough project, better call Lelander,' you understand the level of trust they've built in this market. Bringing Lelander into 1905 allows us to take on sophisticated app and software development projects at a level we simply couldn't before, while continuing to help clients navigate how technology is reshaping the way businesses communicate.”

— John Meilink, President of 1905 New Media (EINPresswire.com)

“Joining a fourth-generation, family-owned company like 1905 New Media allows us to help build tools and technologies for the next generation, while ensuring our people and our clients have a strong future.”

— JP Revel, Lelander Founder (EINPresswire.com)

The takeaway

This acquisition allows 1905 New Media to expand its capabilities in custom software development and emerging AI-driven technologies, positioning the agency as a premier integrated marketing partner in the Midwest region. The addition of Lelander's specialized team and expertise further strengthens 1905 New Media's ability to tackle complex digital challenges and deliver innovative solutions for its growing client base.