Selling Ubuntu systems in the UK

[benweston]

Much like another thread from the US, I'm looking to expand my business to selling Ubuntu systems online. I've been a Linux user for over 10 years and an Ubuntu user since it's initial release candidate!

My aim would be to have a small range of 4 base systems, customisable, starting at £269 inc VAT and Delivery up to £999 inc VAT and Delivery. These have already been priced up. All components are fully Ubuntu-compatible and setup with extras like WINE and and the various codecs (MP3, DVD, etc) preinstalled. A restore image would also be supplied should the user bork the system!

I will also sell Ubuntu-compatible accessories on the site so any Ubuntu users looking for a printer, graphics card, scanner, webcam, etc can buy it from us with the guarantee of 100% compatibility.

Any UKers (or others!) got opinions or suggestions on this?

Ben

EDIT: Forgot to mention that all systems can be bought with the option of Windows XP/Vista installed as well. Either in a QEMU environment (in which we just supply the CDs and don't install as I think it breaches legality) or as a dual-boot!

[markp1989]

im in the uk, and i like the idea of this, i dont know of anywhere except dell who sells ubuntu or linux pcs in the uk

[regomodo]

think you are trying to do too much. I would personally find a niche. A shop for all ubuntu/linux compatible peripherals does not exist afaik.

If you want to sell pcs i think you are going to have to find a way of standing out say price or design. Reckon you're good at marketing?

[madmetal]

i dont know of anywhere except dell who sells ubuntu or linux pcs in the uk

http://efficientpc.co.uk/

and also if you search ubuntuforums there are more stores i think..
;)

[Steveway]

How about whole Europe instead of just the UK?
The idea with Ubuntu-compatible peripherals is great.

[benweston]

Yes I was considering shipping to the whole of Europe. I'm making sure that every component of every system I sell is supported by Ubuntu fully (so no let-downs when the system arrives!) and am silencing every system with low powered fans, rubber feet, silent PSU, etc. I think those two factors alone are very important!

I plan to have the low to mid-range systems on Athlon X2 processors and the mid to high-range on Core 2 Duo and Quad processors.

Reckon that's about right?

[Lord Illidan]

How do you define whole of Europe?

Do you define it geographically? Politically - EU? Or fiscally, as in this post : http://ubuntuforums.org/showpost.php?p=3439575&postcount=6

If the latter, please don't post : We ship to the whole of Europe. I am Maltese and funnily enough, I am also European, for good or worse.

[benweston]

Hi Lord Illidan

It's an interesting point you raise. I look at it like this. I am not adverse to posting ANYWHERE in the world, obviously cost to countries that aren't within the EC may not make buying from the UK a viable option. I will certainly look into it and may very well offer world-wide shipping, as opposed to just Europe (in this instance, the EU.)

Also, if demand is sufficient, it makes it all the more likely that I'll ship to places such as Malta and Cyprus. I do believe Ubuntu should be available to everyone. Isn't that the spirit of Ubuntu, after all?

[benweston]

I might also add that as well as having systems where EVERYTHING is tested to work (such as Compiz out of the box, etc.), I'll also be providing an 0844 local rate number for the UK (and national rate for abroad) to a small team of Ubuntu experts to help with any problems.

Although orders can only be taken online at present, there are incentives like bulk discounts and extended warranties when purchasing via this method. I hope to extend to phone ordering if the business does a good first financial year.