American Express Co. cardholders will have access to film premieres and VIP screenings under an expanded marketing agreement announced Wednesday by the personal finance company and Universal Studios.

Universal Studios, based in Universal City, has worked with American Express since 2008 on marketing opportunities benefiting both companies. Expanding the partnership will ultimately benefit the consumer, said Stephanie Sperber, president of Universal Partnerships & Licensing.

Under the expansion, new benefits to cardholders include discounts on in-park merchandise as well as food and beverage purchases and access to American Express VIP lounges.

American Express, in New York City, will also have first opportunity to participate in product placement and co-promotion on Universal Pictures’ films.

“This is a great example of how a strategic merchant relationship can deliver exceptional benefits and experiences for our joint customers,” Suzan Kereere, senior vice president of merchant services at American Express, said in a prepared statement.