Avis Becomes Official Car Rental Partner of Universal

On Monday, Avis Budget Group announced that the company had teamed with Universal Parks & Resorts to become the "Official Car Rental Partner" of the theme park and hotel chain.

As part of the exclusive multi-year marketing partnership, guests of Universal Parks & Resorts will be eligible to receive discounted rates and special offers from Avis Car Rental and Budget Car Rental.

The deal between the two companies also expands to advertising. In addition to offering customers discounts, the car rental brands will also be featured in Universal's marketing channels, including the websites of Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations, Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood.

Avis Budget Group Vice President Tom Villani released a statement about the new partnership, saying, “Universal's theme parks in Hollywood and Orlando offer today's most compelling theme park entertainment, with something for everyone. In fact, they continue to add exciting experiences and attract guests from all over the world. We're thrilled to team up with Universal and promote our brands, products and services to their guests.”

Tourists booking their vacation package through any of the Universal Parks & Resorts will also be eligible to add Avis and Budget rentals to their orders for a discounted price.

In addition, Avis and Budget will promote Universal's theme parks and hotels to its customers in Orlando and Los Angeles. The marketing will include email communications, point-of-sale signage, in-vehicle promotion and wrapped vehicles.

Follow @Donald_Wood