Entrepreneur Vianney d'Alançon finalized the acquisition of news magazine VSD from Heroes Media on Friday in his first media investment.
The 40-year-old business executive aims to increase distribution for the publication, which claims monthly sales of about 40,000 copies and reports profitable financial results. D'Alançon previously directed the Ecole supérieure de journalisme (ESJ) Paris, a position he took over in 2024 alongside several companies, including some belonging to conservative billionaire groups such as Vincent Bolloré.
To focus on his new projects, he stepped down as president of the journalism school, handing leadership to Godefroy de Bentzmann while retaining an equity stake and the role of honorary president. He is also known for creating Rocher Mistral at the château de La Barben in the Bouches-du-Rhône department.
Digital strategy and content plans
The new owner plans to strengthen VSD's digital presence through a website redesign, expanded digital services, and a reinforced content strategy. D'Alançon said VSD is a well-known brand that can reach a broader and younger audience.
The publication currently employs about 20 staff members and intends to maintain its focus on general news, photojournalism, and investigative reporting. D'Alançon said the magazine will highlight photography alongside culture, including cinema, tourism, and heritage, which he considers important. He added that he plans to make further acquisitions in the media sector.
Publication history
Maurice Siegel, the former director of Europe 1, founded VSD in 1977. The publication transitioned into a monthly magazine following its purchase by Georges Ghosn in 2018. Heroes Media later acquired the title in 2023 while it was in judicial liquidation.
