From the end of March, Chas Hallett, currently Editor-in-Chief of What Car? will return to lead weekly title, Autocar. Meanwhile, current Autocar editor Jim Holder will move to What Car?.
These moves are part of a strategy focused on the digital growth of What Car? and the global expansion of Autocar.
The investment in What Car? will accelerate the expansion of its already market-leading website, enhance its position as the leading monthly magazine for car buyers and open up significant new opportunities for the brand to expand its reach and scope among car buyers, says Haymarket.
Meanwhile Autocar already has 16 international partner editions delivering more than one million print sales every month, plus a website audience of more than five million unique users a month.
Patrick Fuller, Haymarket Group Director, said: “Great products have great editors and Chas and Jim are the best there are. Their skill in building our brands has helped Haymarket Motoring to a monthly audience of more than 10 million people in the UK and market dominance in important territories worldwide. These moves are part of a five-year investment plan to keep us at the top.”
Jim returns to What Car? after leading Autocar for almost three years, during which time autocar.co.uk traffic and revenues have more than doubled. He joins at the start of an intense 12-month period of digital investment and development.
He said: “Rejoining What Car? as Editor after three great years at Autocar is an honour and a wonderful opportunity.”
“To lead the most influential title for British car buyers and owners at such a pivotal time in its development is an immense privilege. In particular, I look forward to working with its expert team as we develop exciting new projects to further enhance the brand’s hard-earned reputation in print, online and across all other platforms.”
“I’ve revelled in every moment of being editor at Autocar and am especially grateful for the opportunity to work with its very talented team, which has worked tirelessly to ensure the magazine remains the most respected weekly on the market and that the website continues to smash all growth targets.”
Chas has completed a major restructure of the What Car? team over the last two years. His return to Autocar allows him a broader international remit and, working closely with Editor-In-Chief, Steve Cropley, he will also continue to drive growth in the UK.
He said: “I’m pleased that What Car? has grown during my three years as editor-in-chief. Now, it is truly Britain’s biggest and best car-buying guide. I’m equally pleased to be returning to Autocar, where we can embark on the next stage of its amazing online success and international expansion.”
