Tripadvisor Unveils Major Sale to American Express with TheFork Deal Valued at $700 Million
In a significant strategic move, Tripadvisor, Inc. has announced its agreement to sell TheFork, its European online restaurant reservation platform, to American Express for a whopping $700 million. This all-cash deal, confirmed on June 15, 2026, not only highlights Tripadvisor's evolving business strategy but also reflects the growing value of its diverse portfolio.
This transaction is a pivotal step for Tripadvisor, marking the culmination of its recent exploration into strategic options for TheFork which was initially communicated in February 2026. Tripadvisor's CEO, Matt Goldberg, expressed his confidence in the opportunities this sale avails for focusing on their Experiences strategy, thereby enabling the company to delve deeper into the experiences sector of the travel industry.
Goldberg highlighted, “This agreement reflects two things we believe deeply: the tangible value across Tripadvisor’s portfolio and our ongoing focus on the opportunity we see ahead in Experiences.” The CEO’s statements underline the company's intent not only to optimize its current offerings but to pave the way for future growth by better positioning itself in the competitive travel and experiences market.
Over the past decade, TheFork has developed a significant presence in European dining, thanks to Tripadvisor’s investment and strategic direction. The firm has become synonymous with restaurant reservations, revolutionizing how diners connect with eateries across the continent. The sale to a major player like American Express signals a promising transition for TheFork, which aims to enhance its service offerings within the American Express ecosystem.
Stephen Squeri, Chairman and CEO of American Express, welcomed TheFork to their family with enthusiasm about what this acquisition heralds for both companies. He remarked, “We have opportunities to create even greater value for customers and partners by building on our shared strengths across dining, travel, and experiences.” The acquisition is anticipated to leverage American Express's strong brand presence and network to potentially innovate how dining experiences are integrated into travel itineraries.
The entire transaction is expected to be finalized before the end of 2026, pending approval from relevant labor organizations and standard regulatory processes. Tripadvisor also mentioned that the sale would provide significant flexibility in elevating its capital return policies and maintaining a strong balance sheet, while still being able to invest further in its Experiences segment.
TheFork reported revenues of $232 million in its last twelve months, with an adjusted EBITDA of $28 million. This financial landscape suggests that the new alliance could present considerable growth pathways, both for Tripadvisor looking forward and American Express as it integrates TheFork into its operational model.
The partnership is not only a transaction but an infusion of pressure and opportunity for both companies in enhancing their offerings in the dining and travel sectors. Looking beyond the immediate financial benefits, there exists potential for innovation in customer experiences as both companies begin to collaborate more closely.
As the dust settles on this landmark deal, stakeholders from both sides will be keenly watching how the integration unfolds. Tripadvisor is poised to harness the resources from this deal to reinforce its market position further, whereas American Express is gearing up to welcome a valuable asset to its portfolio, one that aligns seamlessly with its strategic direction in the experience economy.
This transaction is a pivotal step for Tripadvisor, marking the culmination of its recent exploration into strategic options for TheFork which was initially communicated in February 2026. Tripadvisor's CEO, Matt Goldberg, expressed his confidence in the opportunities this sale avails for focusing on their Experiences strategy, thereby enabling the company to delve deeper into the experiences sector of the travel industry.
Goldberg highlighted, “This agreement reflects two things we believe deeply: the tangible value across Tripadvisor’s portfolio and our ongoing focus on the opportunity we see ahead in Experiences.” The CEO’s statements underline the company's intent not only to optimize its current offerings but to pave the way for future growth by better positioning itself in the competitive travel and experiences market.
Over the past decade, TheFork has developed a significant presence in European dining, thanks to Tripadvisor’s investment and strategic direction. The firm has become synonymous with restaurant reservations, revolutionizing how diners connect with eateries across the continent. The sale to a major player like American Express signals a promising transition for TheFork, which aims to enhance its service offerings within the American Express ecosystem.
Stephen Squeri, Chairman and CEO of American Express, welcomed TheFork to their family with enthusiasm about what this acquisition heralds for both companies. He remarked, “We have opportunities to create even greater value for customers and partners by building on our shared strengths across dining, travel, and experiences.” The acquisition is anticipated to leverage American Express's strong brand presence and network to potentially innovate how dining experiences are integrated into travel itineraries.
The entire transaction is expected to be finalized before the end of 2026, pending approval from relevant labor organizations and standard regulatory processes. Tripadvisor also mentioned that the sale would provide significant flexibility in elevating its capital return policies and maintaining a strong balance sheet, while still being able to invest further in its Experiences segment.
TheFork reported revenues of $232 million in its last twelve months, with an adjusted EBITDA of $28 million. This financial landscape suggests that the new alliance could present considerable growth pathways, both for Tripadvisor looking forward and American Express as it integrates TheFork into its operational model.
The partnership is not only a transaction but an infusion of pressure and opportunity for both companies in enhancing their offerings in the dining and travel sectors. Looking beyond the immediate financial benefits, there exists potential for innovation in customer experiences as both companies begin to collaborate more closely.
As the dust settles on this landmark deal, stakeholders from both sides will be keenly watching how the integration unfolds. Tripadvisor is poised to harness the resources from this deal to reinforce its market position further, whereas American Express is gearing up to welcome a valuable asset to its portfolio, one that aligns seamlessly with its strategic direction in the experience economy.
Topics Business Technology）
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