French tech firm LDLC Group has announced the death of Marc Prieur, a key member of its executive board, at the age of 47. Prieur played a pivotal role in shaping the French consumer electronics market and oversaw numerous acquisitions during his 25-year tenure with the company.
Prieur, described as a visionary in the web-based technology sector, passed away on February 9, 2026, according to an announcement from LDLC Group. His passing marks a significant loss for the French e-commerce and high-tech media landscape.
Pioneering Online Hardware Retail
Prieur’s journey in the tech world began in 1997, while still a high school student, with the creation of Hardware.fr. The website quickly became a leading resource for tech enthusiasts, offering news, reviews, and in-depth analysis of computer hardware. The site’s influence helped establish a dedicated online community for hardware aficionados in France.
Although his editorial contributions ceased in 2018, Hardware.fr, affectionately known as “HFR,” continued to thrive, maintaining a strong following through its popular forums. The enduring popularity of the platform speaks to the lasting impact of Prieur’s initial vision.
In June 2000, Prieur sold Hardware.fr to LDLC Group and joined the company’s leadership team. He spearheaded a transformation of the business, preparing it for the evolving digital landscape and changing consumer purchasing habits. This acquisition proved crucial for LDLC’s growth and expansion in the competitive tech retail market.
Over the next 25 years, Prieur leveraged his expertise to guide LDLC through the acquisition of several competitors, including Top Achat, Rueducommerce, and Materiel.net. “His contribution has been a valuable asset throughout these past 25 years,” the company stated in a press release. “We would like to express our sincere gratitude for his invaluable contribution and constant commitment.”
“We also extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those who had the good fortune to know him,” the company added.
