American Express has agreed to purchase TheFork, a restaurant reservation platform, from TripAdvisor for $700 million. The sale follows pressure from investor Starboard Value, who advocated for TheFork’s divestiture due to TripAdvisor’s ongoing recovery challenges. This acquisition expands American Express’s presence in the dining and travel sectors, offering enhanced services to cardholders. TripAdvisor will utilize the funds to strengthen its core travel planning business and reduce debt. TheFork operates in multiple European countries and Australia, providing online restaurant reservations. Analysts suggest the deal reflects Amex’s strategy to integrate lifestyle services with its financial offerings, capitalizing on post-pandemic dining demand. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to close later this year.