The Minnesota Star Tribune has launched a new brand platform, marking a significant shift in its identity. With 157 years of history, the publication, now officially branded as The Minnesota Star Tribune, aims to strengthen its commitment to delivering journalism that reflects the heart and voice of Minnesota. The rebrand focuses on preserving local journalism and expanding its presence across the state. Created in collaboration with Colle McVoy and Code and Theory, the updated branding emphasizes truth-seeking, innovation, and a connection to Minnesota’s communities.
One of the standout changes is the new logotype. The wordmark features a clean, modern sans-serif typeface, customized to enhance readability and provide a visual rhythm. The typography is bold yet approachable, reflecting both the authority and accessibility of the publication’s content. Angled ligatures and letterform contrasts add character to the wordmark, tying it visually to the star icon and reinforcing the brand’s connection to the North Star—a symbol guiding its journalistic mission.
The star icon, called the “Guide Star,” has been refined into a symmetrical, four-pointed shape, symbolizing the paper’s role as a reliable source of information across Minnesota. The upward cutout in the star represents progress, aligning with the paper’s goal to evolve and grow. The star’s design evokes the North Star, emphasizing direction and stability.
The color scheme is black and white, underscoring the clarity and transparency of the newspaper’s reporting. A warm green accent adds a modern touch while nodding to the publication’s heritage. This green provides depth and functionality, serving as a visual cue in illustrations and data displays. Additional colors from a secondary palette highlight content areas like sports and politics, adding vibrancy and structure to the design.
The typography system centers around three core type families: Publico for body text and headings, Graphik for data, and Popular as an accent font. This structured approach ensures consistency and clarity across all branding.
Along with its full name, the newspaper continues to embrace its familiar nickname, “the Strib,” in more informal contexts, boosting brand recognition and reflecting its close relationship with its readers.
With a modernized logo, refined typography, and a clear color scheme, the rebranded Star Tribune is positioned to continue as a trusted voice for Minnesota, preserving its legacy while confidently moving forward.