Expedia Group Announces Layoffs Amidst Ongoing Cost-Cutting Efforts

• Expedia had 16,500 employees across nearly 50 countries at the end of 2024, with previous layoffs in 2025 impacting about 3% of the workforce
• The company reported Q3 2024 gross bookings up 12% to $30.7 billion and adjusted net income growth of 19% year-over-year, with CEO citing AI as a 'step function' opportunity for team efficiency
• Expedia's stock has risen more than 40% over the past six months to a market cap above $33 billion, with Q4 earnings scheduled for Feb. 12, 2026

Summary: Expedia Group Announces Layoffs Amidst Ongoing Cost-Cutting Efforts

Key Development:

Expedia Group is conducting a new round of layoffs affecting program managers and engineers in Seattle and other locations, though the exact number of impacted employees remains undisclosed. This marks the third workforce reduction in two years for the travel technology company.

Company Background:

• Workforce: 16,500 employees across nearly 50 countries (end of 2024)
• Portfolio includes: Vrbo, Orbitz, Hotwire, Trivago, Hotels.com, and Expedia.com
• Headquarters: Seattle's Interbay neighborhood

Recent Financial Performance:

• Q3 revenue: $4.4 billion (up 9% year-over-year)
• Adjusted net income: up 19% year-over-year
• Gross bookings: $30.7 billion (up 12%)
• Company raised full-year guidance following Q3 results
• Stock performance: up over 40% in past six months
• Market capitalization: exceeds $33 billion

Strategic Context:

CEO Ariane Gorin highlighted AI as a "step function" opportunity to enhance team efficiency, with benefits already visible in product development, technology, and customer service teams—from improved developer productivity to faster customer service resolution times.

Previous Workforce Actions:

• 2025: Layoffs affecting approximately 3% of workforce
• Prior reductions in 2024

Market Implications:

The layoffs reflect ongoing industry-wide cost optimization trends, particularly as companies leverage AI to improve operational efficiency. Expedia's strong financial performance and stock appreciation suggest these cuts are strategic rather than distress-driven. The company reports Q4 earnings on February 12, 2026, which will provide further insight into the restructuring's impact.