Founding and Ownership of Panda Express
Panda Express was founded by Andrew and Peggy Cherng, a married couple who launched the first restaurant in 1983 in Pasadena, California. The brand is a subsidiary of Panda Restaurant Group, which the Cherng family controls and operates as a private company. The chain is widely recognized as the largest Chinese restaurant chain in the United States by number of locations, with more than 2,400 units across the country and growing internationally. Andrew Cherng remains actively involved as co-chairman and chief executive, while Peggy Cherng serves as co-chairman of Panda Restaurant Group Forbes.
The Cherngs started the business after Andrew gained experience in food service and hospitality, and the brand later expanded through company-owned locations rather than traditional franchising. Panda Restaurant Group also operates Panda Inn, a sit-down Chinese restaurant concept, and has invested in other food and technology ventures. The company remains privately held, with the Cherng family retaining majority ownership and control over operations and strategic decisions Forbes.
Growth, Scale, and Business Model
Panda Express grew rapidly by focusing on fast-casual service, standardized menu items, and high-traffic locations such as food courts in shopping malls, airports, and universities. The chain is known for its orange chicken, Beijing beef, and other signature dishes that appeal to a broad customer base. As of the latest public data, Panda Express operates more than 2,400 locations in the United States and has expanded into several international markets, including Japan, South Korea, and the Middle East Bloomberg.
The business model relies on company-owned stores rather than a large franchise network, which allows Panda Express to maintain tight control over menu quality, pricing, and customer experience. The company has been ranked among the top fast-food chains in the U.S. by sales volume and is frequently cited as a model for growth in the fast-casual segment. Panda Restaurant Group continues to invest in technology, supply chain, and digital ordering to support its expanding footprint Bloomberg.
Key Facts About the Founders and Leadership
Andrew Cherng
Andrew Cherng was born in China, raised in Taiwan, and later moved to the United States, where he studied mathematics and worked in the food industry before co-founding Panda Express. He is widely credited with shaping the brand's focus on quality, consistency, and customer service. Andrew Cherng remains co-chairman and actively involved in the company's long-term strategy Forbes.
Peggy Cherng
Peggy Cherng co-founded Panda Express and serves as co-chairman of Panda Restaurant Group. She has played a central role in the company's operations, culture, and community initiatives. The Cherngs are known for their philanthropic efforts, including significant donations to education and