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Worldwide production of the acclaimed Raspberry Pi credit card sized computer is to be moved solely to the UK.

Element14, part of Leeds-based global electronics distributor Premier Farnell and the biggest distributor of Raspberry Pi around the world, is producing the device with Sony UK Technology Centre (UK Tec) in Pencoed in South Wales.

Element14 said the move re-enforces its commitment to the UK manufacturing sector, with 100 per cent of the Raspberry Pi computers being manufactured in Wales for the global mar- ket.

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Following the announcement Claire Doyle, global head of Raspberry Pi at element14, commented: “We are constantly amazed by the demand for the Raspberry Pi across the world and have done everything we can to ensure we keep our supply chain stocked.

“The business stated back in September its intention to bring production of the computer back to its home, the UK, and now after a period of transition we are delighted to announce that all production is in Wales.

“We believe that a UK creation should be produced in its home country and since partnering with Sony UK Tec we have been delighted with the quality and the commitment they have shown in developing the product.”

Since it launched in February last year element14 has distributed over 500,000 Raspberry Pi’s and has created one of the largest Raspberry Pi forums within the element14 Community.

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It has also partnered with schools and launched a series of exclusive accessories.

Steve Dalton, managing director of Sony UK Tec, said: “The demand for the Raspberry Pi is continually increasing and we’re pleased to be working with innovative companies such as element14 and Raspberry Pi to ensure this demand is met.

“Being part of ensuring the success of the Raspberry Pi is hugely important to us.

“It’s extremely exciting to finally see a UK designed product now being fully manufactured here in the UK and indeed Wales.”

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Before last year the Raspberry Pi computer was only manufactured in China.

The British-designed computer, developed by the non-profit Raspberry Pi Foundation, aims to stimulate young people’s interest in computer programming.

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