Universal Music Group (UMG) will mange The Beatles’ merchandise and licensing in a new deal that comes ahead of the upcoming biopics.

The partnership between the entertainment giant – which represents stars including Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter and Kendrick Lamar – and the group’s company, Apple Corps Ltd, will see UMG manage the rock band’s physical and digital merchandise, licensing and e-commerce on behalf of the band.

It comes ahead of Sir Sam Mendes’ upcoming films about the Fab Four which star Harris Dickinson, Paul Mescal, Barry Keoghan and Joseph Quinn as John Lennon, Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Ringo Starr and George Harrison.

The project marks the first time Apple Corps Ltd and The Beatles – Sir Paul, Sir Ringo and the families of Lennon and Harrison – have granted full life-story and music rights for a scripted film.

Sir Lucian Grainge, chairman and chief executive of UMG, said: “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.”

A rarely seen photograph taken during their 1968 Mad Day Out photoshoot in London was also released to mark the new deal.

The photo features the band along with Martha, Sir Paul McCartney’s beloved old English sheepdog, who became a familiar presence around the group.

The dog has sometimes also been described as an unofficial “fifth Beatle” and inspired the White Album track Martha My Dear.

Tom Greene, chief executive of Apple Corps Ltd, added: “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.”

The Beatles were formed in 1960s and went on to become the best-selling music act of all time, with estimated sales of more than 600 million units worldwide and hold the record for the most singles sold in the UK with 21.9 million.

The group won eight Grammys, four Brits, an Academy Award and 15 Ivor Novello Awards – and are known for their songs Yesterday, Hey Jude and Get Back.