Raspberry Pi might not have the huge following of that like an Apple or Microsoft, but there's no doubt that the company has played a significant role in the growth of the maker community. Raspberry Pi Foundation, the company behind the minicomputers, has opened its first offline retail store in Cambridge, UK. The new store offers a wide variety of the company's products and accessories including its new Raspberry Pi 3 Model A+.
Raspberry Pi is well-known for producing cheap ARM-based supercomputers that are popular amongst coders, programmers and DIY enthusiasts. Since the first board went on sale in February 2012, the Pi has found itself a vital component of countless maker projects. However, stepping into the Pi universe for the first time can be a little daunting, especially when you are starting your first project.
With a complicated product lineup including Model A and Model B series, Raspberry Pi Zero and powerful Compute Module minicomputers, it makes sense for the company to open a brick and mortar store where users can try their hands on these products. It also allows them to experience Raspberry Pi products and peripherals physically before purchasing.
Raspberry Pi 3
Visitors not only can pick up the current Pi generations in-store on the first floor of Grand Arcade in the heart of Cambridge, they can also see them via the demo stations.
The shop is cash-free, only accept cards, and won't accept any orders over the phone or online, while the company is continuing to leave those sales to resellers for the time being.
Raspberry Pi Travel Mug
Given the niche appeal of the products, opening an expensive retail store might seem like a foolish investment, but Raspberry Pi has been a real success story and having an offline presence on the high street will help the brand and serve as a useful way of attracting potential new customers.
