Behind the Scenes: Crafting The Economist’s Iconic Cover

The Economist’s cover design is a meticulous process involving spirited debates and careful curation. Deputy editor Edward Carr leads the team through brainstorming sessions, where preliminary sketches are evaluated for their impact and relevance. Each design must capture the essence of the week’s top story while appealing to millions of readers worldwide.

The team considers typography, imagery, and messaging to ensure the cover stands out on newsstands and digital platforms. Historical context and reader expectations play a key role in the decision-making process. The final design often emerges after multiple iterations and lively discussions among editors.

Subscribers to the Cover Story newsletter gain exclusive insights into this creative journey, including early drafts and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. The Economist’s commitment to visual storytelling reinforces its reputation for bold, thought-provoking journalism.

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