Expedia Group has announced an agreement to acquire CarTrawler, a Dublin-based B2B travel technology company that specializes in car rental and mobility solutions. The move marks another major step in Expedia’s strategy to expand its global business-to-business travel platform and offer partners a wider range of travel services through a single system.
The announcement was made during Expedia Group’s EXPLORE 2026 event in Las Vegas, where the company highlighted its growing focus on travel technology, connected booking experiences, and AI-powered tools for partners.
Expedia Expands Beyond Hotel Bookings
Expedia Group has been increasing its investment in the B2B travel market over the past few years. Through its B2B division, the company provides travel inventory and technology solutions to airlines, banks, online travel agencies, loyalty programs, and other travel businesses.
With the acquisition of CarTrawler, Expedia aims to strengthen its offerings in car rentals, airport transfers, rail, and travel insurance products. The company said the deal will help partners create more seamless travel experiences for customers while generating additional revenue opportunities.
Alfonso Paredes, President of B2B at Expedia Group, said the acquisition supports the company’s goal of building “the most complete B2B travel platform” in the industry. He added that Expedia wants to make it easier for partners to access multiple travel services through one connected platform.
CarTrawler’s Global Travel Network
Founded in Ireland, CarTrawler operates a B2B platform that connects travel brands with transportation and mobility providers around the world. The company works with airline and travel partners to provide car rentals and ground transportation services directly within booking journeys.
According to CarTrawler, its platform supports more than 70 airline partners and over 250 travel partners globally. The company has built a strong presence in the travel technology sector by helping brands offer additional mobility services without building their own systems from scratch.
Expedia said CarTrawler’s technology and industry relationships make it a strong fit for its long-term expansion plans.
Part of a Larger Growth Strategy
The CarTrawler acquisition follows Expedia Group’s recent efforts to grow its B2B operations across multiple travel categories. Earlier this year, Expedia also announced plans to acquire Tiqets, a company focused on tours and attractions booking technology.
Industry analysts believe Expedia is working to create a broader travel ecosystem that combines lodging, transportation, activities, and protection services into one connected marketplace.
The company also introduced several AI-focused tools during its EXPLORE 2026 event, signaling its continued push toward more personalized and automated travel experiences.
Deal Expected to Close in 2026
Expedia Group said the CarTrawler transaction is expected to close during the second half of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. The company did not disclose the financial terms of the agreement.
The acquisition reflects the growing competition among travel technology companies to provide end-to-end travel solutions as customer expectations continue to evolve. By expanding its B2B capabilities, Expedia is positioning itself to play a larger role in the future of connected global travel services.
