Who Owns Panda Express? Unveiling the Power Couple Behind the Orange Chicken Empire

The answer is straightforward: Panda Express is owned by Peggy and Andrew Cherng. This dynamic duo, who met in Missouri while Andrew was working at his cousin’s restaurant and Peggy was pursuing her Ph.D. in electrical engineering, didn’t just stumble upon their success. They painstakingly built it, brick by proverbial brick, starting from a single restaurant in Glendale, California, in 1983. Their story is a captivating blend of entrepreneurial spirit, family values, and a keen understanding of the American palate. The Cherngs own Panda Restaurant Group, the parent company that oversees Panda Express, along with other brands like Panda Inn and Hibachi-San.

The Cherng Dynasty: A Look at Panda Restaurant Group

Beyond simply owning the chain, the Cherngs have masterfully crafted Panda Restaurant Group into a powerhouse. It’s far more than just a name on a corporate filing; it’s a reflection of their core principles and business acumen.

Strategic Growth and Innovation

The Cherngs have consistently demonstrated a sharp eye for strategic growth. They didn’t simply replicate the same Panda Express model endlessly. Instead, they adapted and innovated, venturing into diverse locations like college campuses, airports, and even military bases. Their commitment to continuous improvement is evident in their menu updates, restaurant designs, and employee training programs. They’ve understood that staying relevant in a competitive market requires constant adaptation.

Emphasis on Employee Development

A key ingredient in Panda Express’s success is the Cherngs’ dedication to their employees. They view their team as a family and invest heavily in their training and development. This philosophy, deeply rooted in servant leadership, fosters a positive work environment and contributes to high employee retention rates. Many Panda Express managers and executives have risen through the ranks, a testament to the company’s commitment to internal promotion.

Community Engagement and Philanthropy

The Cherngs are committed to giving back to the communities they serve. Through Panda Cares, their philanthropic arm, they support various organizations focused on education, healthcare, and disaster relief. Their commitment to social responsibility extends beyond monetary donations; they actively encourage employee volunteerism and community involvement. This dedication reinforces their position as not only successful business owners but also as responsible corporate citizens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Panda Express and its Ownership

Here are some common questions answered to provide a deeper understanding of Panda Express, the Cherngs, and the business behind the popular orange chicken.

1. Is Panda Express a Franchise?

No, Panda Express is not a franchise. All locations are company-owned and operated by Panda Restaurant Group. This allows the Cherngs to maintain tight control over quality, consistency, and employee training across all their restaurants. This is a significant factor in their brand’s success, as it allows for standardized operations and a uniform customer experience.

2. How Did Andrew and Peggy Cherng Meet?

Andrew and Peggy met in Missouri while Andrew was working at his cousin’s restaurant. Peggy was pursuing her Ph.D. in electrical engineering at the time. Their shared entrepreneurial spirit sparked a connection, leading them to eventually combine their talents and launch Panda Express.

3. What is Andrew Cherng’s Background?

Andrew Cherng immigrated to the United States from China with his father, a master chef. He initially helped his father in the family’s restaurant business before venturing out to create his own culinary enterprise. His deep understanding of Chinese cuisine, coupled with his business acumen, formed the foundation for Panda Express’s success.

4. What is Peggy Cherng’s Background?

Peggy Cherng holds a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the University of Missouri. Her analytical skills and understanding of systems and processes have been instrumental in streamlining Panda Express’s operations and implementing efficient management strategies. She is credited with developing the technology and infrastructure that supported the company’s rapid growth.

5. How Many Panda Express Locations Are There?

As of 2023, there are approximately over 2,400 Panda Express locations worldwide, primarily in the United States, but also in countries like Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. This extensive network demonstrates the brand’s broad appeal and the Cherngs’ successful expansion strategy.

6. What Are Some of Panda Express’s Most Popular Menu Items?

Panda Express is best known for its Orange Chicken, a sweet and savory dish that has become synonymous with the brand. Other popular menu items include Kung Pao Chicken, Broccoli Beef, and Chow Mein. The consistent quality and recognizable flavors of these dishes contribute to Panda Express’s widespread popularity.

7. Does Panda Express Offer Vegetarian or Vegan Options?

While Panda Express is not primarily focused on vegetarian or vegan cuisine, they do offer some options that can be adapted to suit these dietary needs. For example, the Chow Mein and Vegetable Spring Rolls are popular choices. However, it’s crucial for customers with dietary restrictions to carefully review the ingredients and preparation methods with staff to ensure suitability.

8. What is Panda Cares?

Panda Cares is the philanthropic arm of Panda Restaurant Group, founded in 1999 by Andrew and Peggy Cherng. It partners with organizations focused on education, healthcare, and disaster relief to support underprivileged children and communities in need. Panda Cares receives funding from various sources, including in-store donation boxes and employee fundraising efforts.

9. What is the Cherngs’ Leadership Style?

The Cherngs are known for their servant leadership style, which prioritizes the needs of their employees and fosters a culture of collaboration and growth. They emphasize employee training and development, promoting from within and empowering their team to take ownership and responsibility. This leadership approach has contributed to high employee morale and retention rates.

10. How Did Panda Express Adapt to the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Like many restaurants, Panda Express adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic by enhancing its safety protocols, expanding its delivery options, and implementing contactless ordering and payment systems. They also focused on supporting their employees and communities during this challenging time, demonstrating their commitment to social responsibility.

11. What is the Panda Express Innovation Kitchen?

The Panda Express Innovation Kitchen, located in Pasadena, California, serves as a test kitchen and concept store where the company experiments with new menu items, restaurant designs, and technologies. It allows Panda Express to stay ahead of culinary trends and refine its offerings based on customer feedback.

12. What is the Future of Panda Express Under the Cherngs’ Leadership?

Under the Cherngs’ continued leadership, the future of Panda Express looks bright. They are committed to expanding the brand’s global presence, innovating its menu and restaurant designs, and investing in its employees and communities. Their unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and social responsibility positions Panda Express for continued success in the years to come.

In conclusion, the story of Panda Express is inextricably linked to the vision, hard work, and dedication of Peggy and Andrew Cherng. Their entrepreneurial journey is an inspiring example of how a strong work ethic, a commitment to quality, and a genuine care for employees and communities can build a global brand that transcends cultural boundaries. They aren’t just owners; they are the heart and soul of the Orange Chicken empire.