Apple Corps Ltd have formed a unique partnership with Universal Music Group (UMG) to handle the licensing and merchandising for The Beatles.
Apple Corps, founded in 1968 by The Fab Four to handle their business interests, and UMG announced yesterday (Wednesday August 19) that they had reached a “holistic agreement” that will see the latter “take The Beatles’ iconic story to fans across generations and around the world”. The deal relates to digital and physical merchandising, licensing, and e-commerce surrounding the legendary band.
The announcement comes ahead of Sam Mendes’ four-part Beatles biopic, described as a “cinematic event”, due for simultaneous release in 2028.
Apple Corps’ headquarters at 3 Savile Row will also be open to the public for the first time in 2027, with a fan experience that promises “seven floors of never-seen-before material from Apple Corps Ltd’s extensive archives, rotating exhibitions, a fan store, and the recreation of the original studio where ‘Let it Be’ was recorded.”
Tom Greene, CEO of Apple Corps Ltd, said in a press release: “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 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.”
Dickon Stainer, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group UK said: “The Beatles continue to play an unmatched role in putting UK music front and centre on the global stage. This new agreement with Apple Corps will ensure audiences across the world are opened up to their unique genius.”
Recently, the stars of the forthcoming Beatles biopics were pictured recreating the infamous cover for 1969 album ‘Abbey Road’.
