The Beatles & Co. Is Formed

Wednesday 19 April 1967 | Miscellaneous, The Beatles

On 19 April 1967, The Beatles formalised a new business structure with the creation of The Beatles & Co., an umbrella partnership designed to manage and protect their growing financial interests.

Acting on advice from their tax advisors, the group sought to safeguard substantial earnings which were at risk of heavy taxation by the UK Inland Revenue. The solution was to channel their income through a unified corporate entity, reducing their exposure to higher personal tax rates.

The Beatles & Co. effectively replaced their earlier partnership, Beatles Ltd. Under the new arrangement, each member of the group held a 5% personal stake, while 80% of the company was controlled by a separate corporate body — a structure which would soon evolve into Apple Corps.

With the exception of songwriting royalties, which continued to be paid directly to the individual composers, all earnings from recordings, performances, and business ventures were routed through the partnership.

The agreement also bound the four Beatles together in a legal partnership covering both group and solo activities. It was intended to operate over a ten-year period, backed by a goodwill share issue valued at £1 million.

💼 Business Structure

• Company Name: The Beatles & Co.
• Formation Date: 19 April 1967
• Individual Ownership: 5% per Beatle
• Corporate Ownership: 80% (future Apple Corps)
• Purpose: Financial management and tax efficiency

Location Map

FAQ

Why was The Beatles & Co. created?

It was formed to manage the group’s finances and reduce tax liabilities through a corporate structure.

How was ownership divided?

Each Beatle owned 5%, while 80% was controlled by a corporate entity that became Apple Corps.

What income was excluded from the company?

Songwriting royalties were paid directly to the individual composers.

How long was the partnership intended to last?

The agreement was structured to run for ten years.