Beatles and Universal Music Sign Global Merchandise and Licensing Deal

Apple Corps Ltd., the company that looks after the business and creative interests of The Beatles, has signed an exclusive long term worldwide deal with Universal Music Group. The agreement covers physical and digital merchandise, licensing and e commerce for everything related to the Fab Four. Universal has already been managing the band's recorded music catalogue since 2012, but is now significantly expanding that role.

The partnership builds on an earlier, more limited arrangement. Bravado, UMG's merchandise and brand management company, had already been handling Beatles merchandising in North America since September 2022. That regional collaboration is now being converted into a worldwide partnership. UMG has set up similar arrangements with other major names before: in 2018 the company signed comparable deals with The Rolling Stones and Elton John, and Taylor Swift also works with Universal across recordings, merchandise and music publishing.

Tom Greene, the CEO of Apple Corps Ltd. and only the third person ever to hold that position since his appointment in September 2025, responded with enthusiasm. Greene, who previously held senior roles within the Harry Potter universe through Pottermore Publishing and Wizarding World Digital, said in a statement: "We are delighted to partner with UMG on a new global merchandising deal. There has never been a more exciting time to work on The Beatles as we look ahead to the 3 Savile 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."

Sir Lucian Grainge, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group, highlighted the cultural significance of the band: "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."

The deal fits into a broader revival of activity around The Beatles. Apple Corps released Anthology 4 and the Anthology Collection on 21 November 2025, followed by a restored version of the Anthology documentary series on Disney+. A special edition of Rubber Soul, remixed by Giles Martin and Sam Okell, is planned for 2 October. In 2027, the building at 3 Savile Row in London will open as a ticketed attraction for fans. The big moment comes in April 2028, when director Sam Mendes brings his four part Beatles biopic series to cinemas through Sony Pictures Entertainment and Neal Street Productions.

Dickon Stainer, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group UK, pointed to the importance of The Beatles for the British music industry worldwide: "The Beatles continue to play an unmatched role in putting UK music front and center on the global stage. This new agreement with Apple Corps will ensure audiences across the world are opened up to their unique genius." For fans in the Netherlands, where the Beatles have had a loyal following for decades, the deal means that official merchandise and licensed products will become more accessible through UMG's global network, while the upcoming biopics and the opening of 3 Savile Row are sure to generate plenty of extra attention.