No, Tripadvisor is not currently owned by Expedia. While Tripadvisor operates as an independent, publicly traded company today, it once had a direct ownership relationship with Expedia.
Understanding Tripadvisor's Ownership History
To clarify the relationship, it's essential to look back at Tripadvisor's corporate evolution:
- Foundation: The original Tripadvisor business was founded in February 2000.
- Acquisition by IAC/InterActiveCorp: In April 2004, the internet and media conglomerate IAC/InterActiveCorp acquired Tripadvisor.
- Spin-out into Expedia, Inc.: A significant restructuring occurred in August 2005. IAC/InterActiveCorp spun out its entire portfolio of travel brands, which included Tripadvisor, into a newly formed and separate Delaware corporation known as Expedia, Inc. This strategic move meant that Tripadvisor, along with other travel entities, became part of the corporate structure of Expedia, Inc. at that time.
Key Ownership Milestones
| Event | Date | Relationship with Expedia |
|---|---|---|
| Tripadvisor Founded | February 2000 | Independent |
| Acquired by IAC/InterActiveCorp | April 2004 | Owned by IAC |
| Spun into Expedia, Inc. | August 2005 | Became part of Expedia, Inc. |
Although Tripadvisor was indeed integrated into Expedia, Inc. for a period, it has since become an independent entity. This history explains why there is often confusion regarding the current ownership relationship between the two prominent travel companies.
