On August 19, 2026, Apple Corps Ltd, the company established by The Beatles in 1968, and Universal Music Group (UMG) announced a new exclusive, long-term global partnership. This collaboration designates UMG as the manager for The Beatles’ worldwide physical and digital merchandise, licensing, and e-commerce, building upon UMG’s existing oversight of the band’s musical catalog.
The agreement comes strategically ahead of a significant wave of Beatles-related ventures. Notably, this includes a four-part biographical film event directed by Sam Mendes, slated for a simultaneous release in 2028. The biopics will feature Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison. For the first time, Apple Corps Ltd, along with surviving members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, and the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison, have granted full life-story and music rights for a scripted film, underscoring the unprecedented nature of this cinematic project.
Another key initiative preceding the partnership is the opening of ‘The Beatles at 3 Savile Row’ fan experience in 2027. This fan experience will encompass seven floors dedicated to never-before-seen archival material, rotating exhibitions, a fan store, and a recreation of the original studio where the album ‘Let It Be’ was recorded.
Tom Greene, CEO of Apple Corps Ltd, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with UMG, noting that it’s an exciting period for The Beatles with the upcoming fan experience and biopics. Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group, emphasized The Beatles’ role as an iconic and enduring cultural brand and UMG’s commitment to safeguarding and expanding their legacy through authentic fan experiences.
UMG’s subsidiary, Bravado, has been responsible for The Beatles’ merchandise in North America since September 2022, and this new global agreement expands that existing relationship worldwide.