Raspberry Pi Prepares for London Stock Market Debut with a Valuation Up to £500 Million

The British technology firm Raspberry Pi has officially announced its intention to float on the London Stock Exchange.

This marks a significant milestone for the UK’s financial market. The Cambridge-based company, renowned for its affordable computers designed to teach children about computing, has emerged as a tech success story, having sold 60 million units globally since its inception in 2012.

The decision by Raspberry Pi to list in London is a much-needed boost for the London Stock Exchange, which has faced challenges in attracting new listings from major companies this year. Several prominent firms, including Paddy Power owner Flutter, Anglo-German travel company Tui, and building materials firm CRH, have recently shifted their primary listings to other exchanges, such as New York. This trend has sparked concerns about the attractiveness of the UK market for major corporate listings.

However, recent reports indicate a possible shift in this trend. For instance, the China-founded fast-fashion giant Shein is reportedly preparing for a London listing after encountering regulatory hurdles in its attempt to float in New York. Raspberry Pi’s decision to float in London can be seen as a positive signal, reinforcing the London Stock Exchange's capability to attract significant tech firms.

Raspberry Pi, a subsidiary of the Raspberry Pi Foundation, was established in 2008 with the mission of promoting interest in computer science among children. Co-founded by Eben Upton, who currently serves as the CEO, the foundation has played a pivotal role in driving the company’s success. Since 2013, the foundation has received $50 million (£40 million) in dividends from the company and will remain a major stakeholder post-IPO.

The company’s primary products are compact computer boards priced as low as $15, which can function as complete computers when connected to screens. Initially aimed at children to foster coding and IT skills, these devices have found a broader audience, including businesses that use them to power various systems like security cameras and ventilation controls.

For the financial year ending December 31, 2023, Raspberry Pi reported operating profits of $37.5 million on revenues of $265.8 million. These robust financial results underscore the company’s successful business model and growing market demand.

In a statement, Eben Upton emphasized the strategic importance of the IPO for both the Raspberry Pi Foundation and the company. "For the Raspberry Pi Foundation, a patient and supportive shareholder, this IPO brings the opportunity to double down on their outstanding work to enable young people to realize their potential through the power of computing," Upton said. He further highlighted the expanding market for Raspberry Pi’s products. "In an ever more connected world, the market for Raspberry Pi’s high-performance, low-cost computing platforms continues to expand. We have the technology roadmap to play an increasingly significant role, and we are excited to embark on the next stage of our growth."

Raspberry Pi's valuation, estimated to reach up to £500 million, reflects its strong market position and growth potential. The company's affordable and versatile computing solutions have not only revolutionized computer science education but also provided innovative solutions for various commercial applications.

The listing will likely provide Raspberry Pi with enhanced visibility and access to capital, enabling it to further innovate and expand its product offerings. Moreover, it stands to reinforce the London Stock Exchange's position as a viable and attractive market for high-growth tech companies.

The impact of Raspberry Pi extends beyond its financial success. The company has played a crucial role in democratizing access to computing education. By providing affordable computing solutions, Raspberry Pi has empowered millions of young people around the world to develop essential coding and IT skills. This aligns with the broader mission of the Raspberry Pi Foundation, which focuses on enabling young people to realize their potential through the power of computing.

As Raspberry Pi transitions to a publicly listed company, it will face both challenges and opportunities. The tech industry is highly competitive, with rapid advancements and evolving consumer demands. Maintaining its market position will require continuous innovation and strategic investments. However, the IPO will also open up new avenues for growth, including potential partnerships, expanded product lines, and greater market penetration.

Raspberry Pi’s decision to float on the London Stock Exchange is a landmark event for the company and the UK financial market. With a valuation potentially reaching £500 million, the listing underscores the company’s significant achievements and growth potential. As it embarks on this new phase, Raspberry Pi is well-positioned to continue its mission of making computing accessible to all, while also driving innovation and expansion in the tech industry. This move not only highlights Raspberry Pi’s success but also reinforces London’s status as a hub for leading technology firms.