Although once a unique feature of the in-store experience, retailer Argos has now signalled that it may be putting an end to the regular publication of its product-packed catalogue, according to the Daily Mirror.

The increased influence of safe shopping online has led the retailer to pull its catalogue from bricks and mortar outlets across the UK as part of a trial which will determine its fate.

In the short term just a small number of Argos stores will have the catalogues removed, but the implication is that a wider rollout may be initiated if this makes no difference to sales.

A small number of consumers used Twitter and Facebook to express disappointment at the move, with some arguing that it is a great way to keep kids entertained as well as to find products to purchase when a bit of inspiration is needed ahead of birthdays and Christmas.

In 2016 Sainsbury’s paid £1.4 billion to acquire Argos and announced that it would be refocusing its efforts on promoting safe shopping online, while also integrating more digital experiences with its bricks and mortar outlets. The possibility of the Argos catalogue being put out to pasture is just one part of this new strategy.

A spokesperson for the retailer said that because more customers were ordering items online, it makes sense to see whether the catalogues are relevant any longer, hence the need for the trial.

They also confirmed that customers would still be able to get their hands on the latest catalogue at the vast majority of its stores, at least for the time being.

Argos could save a lot of money by putting paid to its catalogue, providing it does not dent its sales and lead to disgruntlement amongst its loyal customers.