The Innovations catalgue was 'under-performing'

The magazine, often distributed free with Sunday newspapers, became cult reading for anyone looking for unusual gifts.

Owners Great Universal Stores (GUS) said home shopping WAs having a tough time and Innovations was "under-performing".

The spring catalogue will be the last.

Around 30 staff employed at the Innovations offices in Wembley, north London, have been informed but may be offered other jobs within GUS companies, which include Argos.

The company said in a statement: "We will be servicing orders from the Innovations catalogue until the end of July.

It shared with new friends its passion for technology, and introduced many to the joys of clocks which are set to the right time AUTOMATICALLY! by radio signals! R.I.P Innovations Catalogue

"We are reviewing options within the Argos Retail Group as to how the brand will be traded going forward."

Innovations was launched in 1985 and credits itself with pioneering such technological breakthroughs as the radio-controlled clock and the recharger that revitalises ordinary batteries.

The company, whose latest publication includes a tree-less hammock, a revolving wine rack and a heated eyelash curler, said it admired the amateur inventor toiling away in the garden shed.

"When we come across a really clever idea that deserves a wider audience we are happy to provide advice on how to bring it to market."