Bertelsmann, a privately owned company headquartered in Germany, employs approximately 14,970 individuals and is primarily focused on media production. The company functions as a media, services, and education entity, operating in about 50 countries globally. Its portfolio includes the entertainment group RTL Group, the trade book publisher Penguin Random House, the music company BMG, the service provider Arvato Group, Bertelsmann Marketing Services, the Bertelsmann Education Group, and Bertelsmann Investments, an international network of funds.
On April 29, 2026, Bertelsmann agreed to acquire Concord and merge it with its BMG Rights Management business, a deal valued at an estimated $14 billion (€11.95 billion) that could reshape the competitive balance among major labels. This strategic move aims to scale Bertelsmann's position in the global music industry and create one of the largest music companies worldwide. Previously, on April 28, 2026, the Penguin Random House owner announced its plan to combine BMG with Nashville-based independent music group Concord in a cash-and-stock transaction, marking the latest in a series of deals to amplify its scale. The merger is expected to establish a fourth major force in recorded music and publishing, positioned behind Universal, Sony, and Warner, with projections indicating the combined company will deliver $2.2 billion in 2026 revenue and $730 million in core profit.
Subscribe for full access to Bertelsmann's products in full detail
Subscribe for full access to Bertelsmann's revenue in full detail
Subscribe for full access to Bertelsmann's products in full detail 
