MCPS Will Launch New Operating Model in Early 2027
The organization announced plans to shift its digital music licensing strategy and partner network for members.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Music — General
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MCPS announced a new operating model on September 24, 2026, which is set to begin in early 2027. The plan includes a direct partnership with ICE Services for digital music licensing and processing.
Why it matters
The transition aims to improve rights protection and boost royalty revenue for members. This strategic shift follows a decade of growth that saw annual distributions rise to £219.9 million in 2025.
MCPS membership increased to 47,000 in 2025 from 23,000 in 2015. The organization has distributed nearly £5 billion in total royalties since 2000.
The players
MCPS
This organization manages mechanical rights for songwriters and composers to ensure they receive royalties.
ICE Services
This licensing and processing hub was established by GEMA, PRS for Music, and STIM to support rights holders.
PRS for Music
This UK-based organization represents the rights of songwriters, composers, and music publishers.
Irish Music Rights Organisation
This entity provides administration and collection services for musical works internationally.
MAIA Universe
This Swedish entity is scheduled to participate in a pilot program with MCPS starting in early 2027.
The details
MCPS will partner with the Irish Music Rights Organisation for international licensing and collection services. This new operational structure replaces aspects of the organization’s long-standing, 30-year partnership with PRS for Music.
Timeline
Annual distributions reached £140.1 million in 2015.
Annual distributions rose to £219.9 million in 2025.
MCPS announced the new operating model on September 24, 2026.
The new operating model and partner network begins in early 2027.
Industry Dynamics
The move marks a departure from the 30-year strategic partnership between PRS for Music and MCPS. By decentralizing its licensing model, MCPS is positioning itself within an increasingly fragmented global digital music rights landscape.
Members can expect changes to how their royalties are processed and collected under the new licensing network. The shift to ICE Services and other partners aims to streamline payments and increase overall revenue efficiency for rightsholders.
The takeaway
Rights holders should monitor official updates to understand how the new partnership network will affect their specific royalty streams. The shift highlights a broader industry trend toward specialized, multi-territory digital licensing hubs.
What happens next
MCPS is expected to confirm the official transition date for its new operating model later in 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the evolving landscape of global royalty distribution on the Music — General page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Music Week.
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