Apple Corps Ltd, founded in 1968 to oversee The Beatles’ creative and business interests, and Universal Music Group (UMG) have entered an exclusive, long-term global partnership for The Beatles.
Under the agreement, UMG will handle worldwide physical and digital merchandise, licensing, and e-commerce on behalf of the band.
Deal scope
UMG’s merchandise and brand management company Bravado has held The Beatles’ North American merchandise rights since 2022. The new arrangement expands that remit globally.
The partnership builds on UMG’s existing stewardship of the band’s catalog.
Upcoming projects
In 2027, Apple Corps Ltd will launch the world’s first official Beatles fan experience, The Beatles at 3 Savile Row.
Sam Mendes’ biopic, The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event, will open in 2028.
Executive comment
Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group, said:
“The Beatles embody music’s power to change the world, and that influence makes them one of the most iconic and enduring cultural brands of all time. We’re grateful for Apple Corps’ trust as we deepen our global partnership, while protecting and growing The Beatles’ legacy through authentic fan experiences worthy of their artistry. As a lifelong Beatles fan, building on the relationships forged over the past 14 years is one of the great highlights of my career.”
