The Economist shades AI in sharp new billboard ads
Design Graphic Design Branding Advertising The Economist shades AI in sharp new billboard ads News By Natalie Fear Published 10 July 2026 Stripped-back visuals become a powerful storytelling tool. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it...
Design Graphic Design Branding Advertising The Economist shades AI in sharp new billboard ads News By Natalie Fear Published 10 July 2026 Stripped-back visuals become a powerful storytelling tool. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: The Economist/Cocogun) Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Pinterest Flipboard Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter The Economist has launched a powerful new billboard campaign challenging the rise of AI in media. Wonderfully simple in its execution, the back-to-basics campaign is a prime example of how stripped-back visuals can be a powerful storytelling tool.Paired with ingenious copy, the striking billboard ads demonstrate the enduring value of thoughtful copywriting in the branding sphere. In a world of loud, social-led design, The Economist's latest campaign is a refreshing respite from the noise of the branding sphere. (Image credit: The Economist/Cocogun)Made in collaboration with independent creative agency Cocogun, The Economist's latest campaign features minimalist red billboards with snappy copy such as "Think outside the bot" and "actual intelligence". Unmistakably on brand thanks to the stripped-back colour palette and signature serif font, the campaign radiates authority and confidence without feeling sanctimonious.Latest Videos FromWatch full video here: (Image credit: The Economist/Cocogun)The OOH campaign will appear around the World Trade Centre, key New York City and Chicago subway stations, alongside UK placements in Leicester Square, Carnaby Street and Canary Wharf.On the project, Cocogun creative partner, Ant Melder, says: “To follow in the wake of some of the greatest advertising the world has ever seen is no small task. I like to think/am utterly terrified by the idea that a certain Mr Abbott is somewhere in the ether looking down on everything we do with a judicious, firm yet encouraging eye. We’re beyond proud to have been entrusted with this, and look forward to continued collaboration.” You may like Polaroid’s new anti-AI billboard is an important reminder to touch grass 'A serious misstep': How on earth did this AI billboard ad get approved? Surprise, Skechers is making AI slop again (Image credit: The Economist/Cocogun)For more advertising inspiration, check out Polaroid's refreshing anti-AI campaign or take a look at McDonald's painfully relatable new billboard ads.Get the Creative Bloq NewsletterSign up to Creative Bloq's daily newsletter, which brings you the latest news and inspiration from the worlds of art, design and technology.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. TOPICS Graphic Design Natalie FearStaff WriterNatalie Fear is Creative Bloq's staff writer. With an eye for trending topics and a passion for internet culture, she brings you the latest in art and design news. Natalie also runs Creative Bloq’s 5 Questions series, spotlighting diverse talent across the creative industries. Outside of work, she loves all things literature and music (although she’s partial to a spot of TikTok brain rot). View More You must confirm your public display name before commenting Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name. Logout Read more Print Design & Publishing 'A serious misstep': How on earth did this AI billboard ad get approved? Advertising Surprise, Skechers is making AI slop again Branding What happens when clients trust AI more than creative expertise? 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