American Express Co. (NYSE:AXP) shares rose 1.3% in premarket trading on Monday after the company announced an agreement to acquire TheFork from Tripadvisor Inc. (NASDAQ:TRIP) in a transaction valued at $700 million.
The proposed acquisition is designed to strengthen American Express’ dining ecosystem and expand its footprint across key European markets
Deal Expands Restaurant Booking Network TheFork operates a restaurant reservation and management platform spanning 11 European countries, connecting consumers with more than 50,000 restaurant partners. Once combined with American Express’ existing dining platforms, Resy and Tock, the acquisition would increase the company’s network to approximately 75,000 bookable restaurants worldwide. The move is expected to enhance the range of dining experiences available to American Express customers while broadening opportunities for restaurant partners.
Europe Remains a Strategic Growth Market Founded in 2007, TheFork provides restaurants with a suite of tools covering reservations, guest engagement and operational management, alongside its consumer-facing booking app and website. American Express views the acquisition as an opportunity to strengthen its position in Europe, a region that continues to play an important role in the company’s long-term growth strategy. Transaction Expected to Close in 2026 Under the terms of the agreement, American Express will pay $700 million in cash for TheFork, subject to customary adjustments.