When one went to a conference in the old days, one's company usually employed a person of small stature to walk two paces ahead, distributing one's business card. Alas, small-minded personnel managers have abolished this function as a so-called "costcutting measure".

But just as one thought one was destined to fumble forever in one's pockets for those elusive cards, there comes a new and stylish appliance from Italy.

Weep no more, fellow executives, for the automatic business card dispenser is upon us. Simply point the device at the intended recipient and slide the button forward. Out pops a card, ready to be plucked and treasured by your interlocutor.

Available at £15.95 from Minima on St Stephen's Green at Merrion Row, and other good gizmo stockists.