The 210,000-plus circulation weekly has a stringent, time-critical production regime.
It is produced at the group’s Wyndeham Peterborough site, which is geared up to produce fast-turnaround, time-sensitive products.
The Economist is printed on the plant’s two Manroland Lithoman IV 72pp web presses, followed by high-speed stitching on its Ferag and Muller Martini Tempo lines.
Economist Group production manager Simon Maggs praised Wyndeham for the firm’s “unrivalled understanding of our requirements”.
He said: “The Economist demands high standards in print and production while achieving a very challenging distribution schedule. I expect they [Wyndeham Peterborough] will continue to deliver to our high expectations.”
Despite the long-standing relationship between the publisher and printer, PrintWeek understands the Economist team carried out a thorough evaluation of alternative print suppliers before deciding on the renewal.
The deal means Wyndeham will continue to print the title until at least April 2017.
Wyndeham Group chief executive Paul Utting said: “We’re very pleased and this is great news. It shows there is a place for quality, service and reliability.
“The Economist ensures we are regularly tested to deliver on time, every time. This contract extension demonstrates our client’s confidence in Wyndeham Group and provides a solid foundation for the Peterborough site.”
Under separate contracts Wyndeham also prints the Economist’s Intelligent Life glossy, and ‘The World In’ titles.