Esquire Set to Launch French Edition: A New Chapter in Global Expansion
In a significant move for the iconic magazine brand, Esquire is preparing to unveil its French edition, Esquire France, in the spring of 2026. This new imprint will not only cater to readers in France but will also extend its reach to Francophone regions, including Monaco and St. Barthélemy. The magazine aims to blend fashion, sports, and lifestyle content, appealing to a diverse audience that values high-quality journalism.
Leadership and Vision
Bruno Danto, a seasoned figure in the fashion publishing world and former editor-in-chief of Vogue Hommes, has been appointed as the editorial director for Esquire France. His extensive experience in the industry positions him well to guide the magazine’s vision and content strategy. Danto’s new venture will be under the umbrella of Kerroc Media, a company he has recently established, with backing from Hearst Magazines International.
The launch of Esquire France marks the 25th international edition of the magazine, a testament to its enduring global appeal. Danto will be supported by a team of notable figures, including French football legend Youri Djorkaeff as a founding partner, former Condé Nast France CEO Didier Suberbielle as a strategic advisor, and entrepreneur Ken Masui as creative director and investor. This diverse leadership team aims to infuse the publication with a unique blend of cultural insights and industry expertise.
A Strategic Move in a Competitive Market
The decision to enter the French-speaking market aligns with a broader strategy by Hearst International to expand Esquire‘s global footprint. In 2023 alone, the company has launched or relaunched editions in Brazil, Japan, India, Vietnam, and Colombia. Jonathan Wright, president of Hearst Magazines International, emphasized the potential within the men’s fashion space, stating, “The men’s space in fashion is smaller, but I think it’s still a huge opportunity. Men are underserved in high-quality journalism, so I think it’s an important market.”
This expansion comes at a time when print media is grappling with declining readership and advertising revenue. However, Esquire is not merely adapting; it is innovating. The magazine plans to introduce a membership program called the Esquire Club, which will offer subscribers exclusive access to events and cultural experiences, such as concerts, wine tastings, and art exhibitions. This initiative reflects a growing trend among publishers to diversify revenue streams and engage readers in new ways.
The Evolution of Print Media
The landscape of print media has undergone significant changes in recent years, with many traditional publications facing challenges in maintaining relevance. However, Wright remains optimistic about the future of Esquire and its role in the media ecosystem. “It’s a disruptive time in print publication, but I don’t think it’s a declining time,” he remarked. “We’re very bullish on all the brands and the role that they could play in helping to entertain, inform, and surprise people around the world for a long time to come.”
This sentiment echoes a broader industry trend where established brands are reimagining their identities to resonate with contemporary audiences. Esquire has been actively working to shed its image as a publication solely for affluent, traditional male readers. Under the leadership of editor-in-chief Michael Sebastian, the magazine has been evolving its content to reflect a more diverse and inclusive perspective, moving away from the stereotype of the “rich white guy who likes Dickens.”
Cultural Context and Historical Significance
The launch of Esquire France is not just a business decision; it is also a cultural statement. France has long been a hub for fashion and lifestyle, making it a natural fit for a publication that aims to blend these elements. Historically, Esquire has been at the forefront of men’s lifestyle journalism since its inception in 1933, often setting trends rather than following them. The magazine has a rich legacy of covering not just fashion, but also politics, culture, and social issues, making it a multifaceted platform for discourse.
The French edition will likely draw inspiration from the country’s rich artistic heritage, incorporating local voices and perspectives that resonate with its audience. This approach aligns with the magazine’s goal of providing high-quality journalism that goes beyond mere surface-level trends.
Conclusion
As Esquire prepares to launch its French edition, it stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation. With a strong leadership team and a clear vision for the future, Esquire France aims to carve out a unique space in the competitive landscape of lifestyle journalism. By focusing on high-quality content and engaging experiences, the magazine seeks to redefine what it means to be a modern publication in an ever-evolving media environment. As the world watches, Esquire is poised to make a significant impact in the Francophone market, continuing its legacy of excellence in journalism.
