Uber is reportedly considering purchasing Expedia, one of the largest travel booking companies globally, as reported by the Financial Times. Valued at $20 billion and achieving record revenue in 2023, this would be Uber’s most significant acquisition to date if the deal progresses. While Uber has not yet made a formal offer, they have been working with advisors to assess the potential implications and structure of acquiring Expedia. Interestingly, Uber’s CEO, Dara Khosrowshahi, who previously led Expedia before joining Uber in 2017, may sit out of the deal discussions. The idea of acquiring Expedia was reportedly suggested by a third party, not Khosrowshahi. Uber has been aiming to expand its travel booking services and become a comprehensive transportation platform, similar to an “Amazon of transportation.” Over the years, they have made significant acquisitions such as Postmates and Drizly, as well as collaborations with Waymo and Cruise to offer autonomous rides in select markets. With renewed demand for rides and food delivery leading to profitability in 2023, Uber could be in a strong position to acquire a company as substantial as Expedia.
