Pierre-Édouard Stérin, a billionaire known for his success with Smartbox gift sets, is channeling his wealth into shaping public discourse. His ambitious cultural initiative, named “Périclès,” aims to bolster the conservative right’s influence in political spheres.
Stérin’s efforts to establish a foothold in the media landscape have been met with mixed results. Despite setbacks, including an unsuccessful bid to acquire the magazine Marianne in 2024, Stérin remains undeterred. His financial backing currently extends to Neo, a territorial-focused site, and the far-right magazine l’Incorrect, but his sights are still set on the right-leaning weekly Valeurs actuelles. Media historian Alexis Lévrier suggests that unlike media mogul Vincent Bolloré, Stérin’s high-profile visibility might hinder his effectiveness in the media sector.
The “Périclès” plan, unveiled by L’Humanité in July 2024, is a strategic effort to infuse society with values that Stérin holds dear. The initiative’s acronym stands for “Patriotes, Enracinés, Résistants, Identitaires, Chrétiens, Libéraux, Européens, Souverainistes,” reflecting a comprehensive conservative ideology. Stérin is committed to investing €150 million over the next decade to counterbalance the political influence of leftist groups.
Stérin actively engages with political figures, maintaining a relationship with Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella from the National Rally (RN). In January 2025, he dined with Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, sharing common conservative values. Stérin’s networking extends beyond France; former Trump campaign advisor Paul Manafort has offered his services for the upcoming 2027 French presidential election, although this offer was declined.
Looking ahead to the 2026 municipal elections, the “Périclès” project aims to secure victories for RN candidates in 300 small to medium-sized towns. Stérin supports Politicae, an organization that trains aspiring mayors, providing a platform for political advancement.
Despite his conservative affiliations, Stérin insists he engages with individuals across the political spectrum, including socialists, on issues like extremism. Known for his unconventional methods, Stérin’s philanthropic efforts under the “Fonds du bien commun” support charity events like the Nuits du bien commun, although his political associations have caused some donors to withdraw support.
Stérin’s ambitions include creating a network of young conservative leaders through the Institute of Political Training (IFP), which draws inspiration from the U.S.-based Leadership Institute. This network is intended to spread conservative ideals through media and politics.
The “Périclès” initiative also seeks to develop a database of potential political appointees, positioning them for roles in government and public enterprises in the event of a conservative electoral victory. Additionally, Stérin is exploring opportunities to acquire a polling institute to further influence public opinion.
Amid his cultural pursuits, Stérin continues to expand his business interests with his venture capital firm, Otium Capital, actively pursuing acquisitions, such as the automotive supplier GMD. As Stérin navigates these dual paths of business and cultural influence, his strategies are closely watched as potential shifts in the political landscape unfold.
