TripAdvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRIP) shares moved higher during Monday's trading session, gaining 5.2% to $13.06, after the company announced the sale of its European restaurant booking platform, TheFork, to American Express (NYSE: AXP) in a $700 million all-cash transaction.

Key Highlights

  • TripAdvisor shares rose 5.20% to $13.06 on Monday.
  • The stock gained $0.64 during the session.
  • The company agreed to sell TheFork to American Express for $700 million in cash.
  • TheFork generated $232 million in revenue and $28 million in adjusted EBITDA over the trailing twelve months.
  • TripAdvisor plans to increase focus on its core Experiences business following the transaction.

TripAdvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRIP) traded higher on Monday after announcing a definitive agreement to sell TheFork, its European online restaurant reservation and management platform, to American Express for $700 million in an all-cash deal.

The transaction represents a significant portfolio reshaping move for TripAdvisor as management continues focusing on its higher-priority Experiences segment. Earlier this year, the company disclosed that it was exploring strategic alternatives for TheFork as part of efforts to unlock shareholder value and streamline operations.

TheFork operates one of Europe's largest restaurant booking networks, serving more than 50,000 restaurants across 11 countries. Over the trailing twelve months through the first quarter of 2026, the business generated approximately $232 million in revenue and $28 million in adjusted EBITDA.

For American Express, the acquisition expands its premium dining ecosystem and significantly increases the number of bookable restaurants available to cardmembers. Following the acquisition, American Express's dining network is expected to grow to approximately 75,000 venues globally.

TripAdvisor indicated that net proceeds from the transaction should closely approximate the $700 million headline purchase price due to minimal expected tax impacts. Management said potential uses of the proceeds include share repurchases, debt reduction, strategic investments, and further expansion of the company's Experiences business.

The sale also addresses long-standing calls from some investors for TripAdvisor to unlock value from non-core assets and sharpen its strategic focus. The transaction is expected to close before the end of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.