Interview with Xavier Mariani, PGE 2009, in Challenge.fr

Xavier Mariani, PGE 2009, founded Adikteev in 2012 together with Emilien Eychenne, PGE 2008, creating a retargeting solution designed for game publishers. 
The platform is benefiting from a rapidly growing market. He was recently a guest of the Club Entrepreneurs Challenges – Montefiore Investment. 

This interview highlights the entrepreneurial journey of two GEM Alumni who have successfully established themselves in a fast‑evolving technological ecosystem.

Founded in 2012 with Emilien Eychenne PGE 2008, Adikteev has become a leading technology platform dedicated to advertising retargeting for mobile game publishers. Initially focused on media, the two founders pivoted toward “retargeting” as they observed the explosive rise of the mobile gaming market. Their solution aims to enhance player retention by re‑engaging inactive users through targeted advertising campaigns.

“Mobile games were booming,” recalls Xavier Mariani, explaining this strategic pivot that became a major driver of growth.

Today, Adikteev works with more than 180 international clients, including major players such as Blizzard, Activision, and King.

The company, profitable most years since it was created, generated 150 million dollars in revenue in 2025, 95% of which came from international markets.

This is an exemplary trajectory for a French scale‑up that has successfully navigated major market disruptions—particularly following the changes imposed by Apple regarding tracking—which forced the company to deeply adapt its technological approach.

The founders have also gradually regained majority ownership through several LBO operations, strengthening their strategic independence.

Their ambition for the next decade is clear: surpass one billion dollars in revenue and continue expanding globally with new product launches.

This interview not only highlights the inspiring journey of two GEM Alumni, but also the significant impact Adikteev has on the French and international tech ecosystem.

Read the full interview by Laure Croiset on Challenges.fr.