At the end of every year, the numbers tell their own story. In 2025, AutoTalk Australia readers were drawn less to product launches or hype cycles, and more to the people, deals and decisions reshaping the industry behind the scenes.
From major acquisitions to leadership transitions — and one deeply felt loss — these were the five stories that resonated most with our audience this year, ranked from most read to least.
Together, they offer a clear snapshot of an industry in consolidation mode, with scale, succession and structure front of mind.
1. Vale Richard Collins AM: driving force behind Jarvis Group
Topping the list was the passing of Richard Collins AM, a figure whose influence stretched well beyond South Australia. As founder of the Jarvis Group, Collins built one of the country’s most respected dealer operations over more than four decades. The response to his death reflected the depth of his relationships across the industry and the enduring impact of long-term, values-led leadership.
2. Jowett Motor Group reshapes leadership
Second most read was the leadership transition at Jowett Motor Group, with Brett Jakes stepping into the CEO role and founder Tony Jowett moving to chairman.
The story struck a chord as a textbook example of planned succession, arriving at a time when many dealer groups are grappling with how to transition from founder- led businesses to more formal corporate structures.
3. Autosports Group completes $32.8m Barry Bourke Motors acquisition
In third place was one of the year’s most significant M&A moves, with Autosports Group finalising its acquisition of Barry Bourke Motors.
The deal further consolidated Victoria’s prestige market and reinforced Autosports’ position as the country’s largest listed automotive retail group — a theme that continues to define the upper end of the market.
4. Mercedes-Benz dealership consolidation across Melbourne
Reader interest remained strong in the ongoing consolidation of Mercedes-Benz retailing in Victoria, with the expansion of the Patterson Cheney-owned group linking Brighton, Mornington, Berwick and Waverley.
The story reflected a broader trend: fewer dealer principals controlling larger geographic footprints as brands seek consistency, efficiency and scale.
5. Honda leadership changes across Australia and New Zealand
Rounding out the top five was Honda’s leadership reshuffle, with Jay Joseph taking over as CEO of Honda Australia and Carolyn McMahon moving to lead Honda New Zealand.
While quieter than the year’s biggest acquisitions, the story highlighted the growing importance of trans- Tasman alignment and regional strategy at OEM level.
Join the conversation