The Beatles‘ United Kingdom-based rights-holding company Apple Corps has signed a worldwide exclusive licensing and merchandise agreement with Universal Music Group (UMG). The pact covers physical and digital merchandise, licensing and e-commerce.
The deal was announced ahead of four planned biopics about the group directed by Sam Mendes.
Deal scope and executive comment
UMG chairman and CEO Lucian Grainge commented:
“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,” Grainge said. “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.”
Biopics and cast
The four-film project, titled “The Beatles – A Four Film Cinematic Event”, is in production and set for release in 2028. Casting includes:
- Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney
- Harris Dickinson as John Lennon
- Joseph Quinn as George Harrison
- Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr
Apple Corps and London fan experience
Apple Corps, which is not connected to the technology company founded by Steve Jobs, was formed in 1968 to oversee the group’s creative and business interests. The company has been developing projects to introduce the band to new audiences, including an immersive experience in London set to open in 2027.
The venue at 3 Savile Row will include seven floors of archival material, a merchandise store and a recreation of the studio where Let It Be was recorded. The building is also where the group played its rooftop concert, and visitors will be able to relive that moment on the original site.
Apple Corps CEO Tom Greene commented:
“We are delighted to partner with UMG on a new global merchandising deal,” Greene said. “There has never been a more exciting time to work on The Beatles as we look ahead to the 3 Saville Row fan experience in 2027, and our biopic movies in 2028. The Beatles’ message has never been more relevant or needed in the world today, and we look forward to delighting millions of fans with everything we have planned.”
