Apple and UMG announce global Beatles merchandise partnership
Apple Corps Ltd. and Universal Music Group (UMG) have announced a new exclusive, long-term global partnership for The Beatles. The agreement will see UMG manage the band’s worldwide physical and digital merchandise, licensing and e-commerce activities.
New phase of collaboration
The partnership builds on UMG’s existing stewardship of The Beatles’ music catalogue and marks a new phase of collaboration between the two companies. Apple Corps, founded in 1968 to oversee The Beatles’ creative and business interests, will continue to work with UMG to bring the band’s story and legacy to fans around the world and across generations.
Global development and distribution
Under the agreement, UMG will oversee the global development and distribution of Beatles merchandise across physical and digital channels, as well as licensing and e-commerce. The companies described the deal as a first-of-its-kind long-term partnership covering the full range of these activities.
The new agreement expands the relationship between Apple Corps and UMG, which already collaborate on the management of The Beatles’ catalogue.