Launched in 2012, the Raspberry Pi has since sold an impressive number of 25 million units online. The tiny computer is familiar to many in the maker community as it enables creators to develop interesting projects (such as this Commodore PET 8032 Replica.)
However, to reach new customers, rather than “just talking to the same group of people”, the company has set up its first ever high street store in Cambridge, England. The Raspberry Pi was invented here, making it the perfect home for an “experimental space” / physical store.
At the store, customers will be able to buy products as well as receive advice on how to use the Raspberry Pi.
Eben Upton, co-father of the Raspberry Pi, said that as well as giving new customers the chance to experience the product, the store also provides the company with a chance to get an insight into the types of challenges newbies face when first encountering the computer.
Enjoy the Experimental Space and Pick Up a New Pi
Wondering why Raspberry Pi decided to set up shop when most retailers are moving online? Upton told the BBC: “Quite simply, we had a realisation that there are things you can do in the physical world that you can’t do online and I think for the high street to have a future, it has to develop a story which is about more than just selling.”
As a result, half of the shop, which is located in the Grand Arcade in Cambridge, is dedicated solely to experimentation. It is set up in a similar style to an Apple store, with products available to play and experiment with.
If you’re not willing to make a special trip to the UK, visit the Raspberry Pi website to stay up to date with news from the brand.
Source: BBC
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