A number of factors influenced this development, he said, noting that Lowe’s enthusiasm, energy and passion for the business will be sorely missed.

“This is very unfortunate and we are sorry to see Stuart go, but we have a strong team of editorial and business leaders who look forward to an interesting and prosperous 2013. The market segments in which we operate are presently very buoyant within the difficult broad economy, so we are positive about what the new year will produce,” he added.

“We will continue to sharpen our focus on the fundamentals of a successful media business to ensure we have maximum participation from our highly talented team leaders and staff members and to capitalise on the many business opportunities that exist in the special-interest markets we serve.”

Lowe joined RamsayMedia as circulation marketing manager in 1997, becoming publisher of CAR in 2005 and managing director in May 2008. Five months later the company rebranded and announced its intention to follow a 360-degree multiplatform approach.

Alan Ramsay will take responsibility for operation leadership of the company in the short term.