UMG Strikes Landmark Global Deal for The Beatles’ Merch, Licensing and E-Commerce

Apple Corps Ltd, founded in 1968 to oversee The Beatles’ creative and business interests, and Universal Music Group (UMG) have entered a new, exclusive, long-term global partnership for The Beatles.

The deal:

• UMG will handle worldwide physical and digital merchandise, licensing and e-commerce on behalf of the band.

• Via its merchandise and brand management company Bravado, UMG has held The Beatles’ North American merch rights since 2022 – this deal expands that arrangement globally.

• It builds on UMG’s existing stewardship of the band’s legendary catalog.

Other Beatles activity:

• 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.

What they said:

• Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group: “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.”