by Cameron Outridge

For Kylie Limpus, owner of Cartridge World in Nambour, keeping her business open is about more than selling ink—it’s about preserving the unique services and personal touch that only local businesses can provide. 

But as the town faces the effects of inflation and cost of living pressures, she is calling on the community to rally behind  local shops like hers.

As the last Cartridge World left on the Sunshine Coast, and amid rising costs and growing competition from online retailers Kylie says the shop is in danger of closing.

“There are so many empty shops in Nambour, and ours could be next if things don’t change,” Kylie said. Her store has been a mainstay in the community, offering far more than just ink cartridges. Cartridge World Nambour provides personalised services that can’t be found online, including printer repairs, setup, and even free loan printers when needed.

“Yes, you can buy cheap ink online—but will someone from eBay or an online store come to your home or workplace to fix your printer if something goes wrong? Assist you with installation? Talk to you about your printing needs?” Kylie asked. “We do all that, and more. We like to look after our customers.”

But as much as Kylie values her customers, she also understands the financial pressures they face. “Life is expensive,” she said. “And buying replacement ink cartridges can be a tough cost to justify, especially when online prices seem so much lower.”

However, she cautions against the hidden costs of buying cheap, inferior cartridges. “Those cheap online cartridges often produce poor-quality prints, or worse, they can damage your printer,” Kylie explained. “We see so many printers in our store for repair because of dodgy ink bought online. In the long run, the short-term saving doesn’t justify the reprints, maintenance, and new cartridges.”

Kylie believes Cartridge World offers something special. “Our ink cartridges provide the best page yield and value for money, with excellent print quality that lasts. By purchasing locally, you’re not just supporting a small business—you’re getting a better product, better service, and real human support,” she said.

Kylie’s plea is as much about keeping her business alive as it is about preserving the heart of Nambour. “I love this community, and I want to stay here for as long as I can,” she said. “But without support, more and more local shops will close, and we’ll lose the convenience, the personal service, and the sense of community that makes this area special.”

Her final message is one of hope and a call to action: “Please, next time you need ink or printer supplies, think of us—your local Cartridge World. We’re here for you, and we’d love to keep serving you.”

For locals looking to get a quote or learn more about their printing options, Kylie and her team are ready to help Nambour residents with all their printing needs. 

• Nambour Cartridge World is at 86 Howard Street, Nambour. Phone 5441 4387.