Panda Express Owners Net Worth (Updated 2025).
Panda Express, a popular American fast food restaurant chain, was founded by Andrew and Peggy Cherng in 1983. The couple, originally from China, had been running a successful Chinese restaurant in Pasadena, California, called Panda Inn, since 1973. Seeing an opportunity to bring their unique blend of Chinese cuisine to a broader audience, they decided to open a fast-casual version of their restaurant, thus Panda Express was born.
The Cherngs’ journey to fame and success began with their commitment to quality and authenticity. They introduced American consumers to Chinese-American dishes like Orange Chicken and Chow Mein, prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Their innovative approach to fast food, coupled with exceptional customer service, quickly gained popularity. Today, Panda Express is a billion-dollar company with over 2,000 locations worldwide, making the Cherngs iconic figures in the American food industry.
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Panda Express Owners’ Current Net Worth (2025)
The current net worth of the Panda Express owners, the Cheng family, is estimated to be around $28.8 billion as of 2025, according to Forbes. This significant wealth is primarily attributed to their controlling stake in Panda Express, one of the largest fast food chains in the U.S.
Career
The Cheng family’s journey began with Ming Tsai Cheng, who founded Panda Express in 1983 with his son, Andrew Cheng. Initially, they started with a single food court location and expanded steadily, driven by Andrew’s innovative marketing strategies. Today, Panda Express operates over 2,000 locations across the U.S. and internationally.
Other Ventures
Beyond Panda Express, the Cheng family has diversified their investments. Andrew Cheng serves as the CEO of Panda Restaurant Group, which also owns the fast-casual chains Panda Inn and Hibachi-San. Additionally, the family has interests in real estate, technology, and philanthropy. They established the Panda Charitable Foundation, focusing on education, health, and community development.
Assets
The Cheng family’s assets primarily consist of their majority stake in Panda Restaurant Group, valued at over $15 billion. They also own several properties, including the Cheng Family Trust’s 18-hole golf course in California, valued at around $10 million. Their investment portfolio includes stakes in tech companies like Airbnb and SpaceX.
Annual Income
As of 2025, the Cheng family’s annual income is estimated to be around $500 million, primarily derived from Panda Express’s operational profits. This figure is subject to fluctuations based on the company’s performance and market conditions. The family’s philanthropic activities also contribute to their annual expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions about Panda Express Owners
1. Who are the owners of Panda Express?
The founders and owners of Panda Express are Andrew Cherng and his wife Peggy Cherng. Andrew is the CEO, while Peggy serves as the Chairwoman and Co-Chair of the company.
2. How did Panda Express start?
Panda Express was founded by Andrew Cherng in 1983. The first restaurant was opened in Glendale, California, and the concept was to provide Americanized Chinese food in a fast-casual setting.
3. What is the net worth of Panda Express owners?
The latest estimated net worth of Andrew and Peggy Cherng is $3 billion.
4. How many Panda Express locations are there?
As of 2021, there are over 2,000 Panda Express locations worldwide, with the majority being in the United States.
5. How does Panda Express make money?
Panda Express generates revenue through the sale of food and beverages at its restaurants. The company operates on a franchise model, with franchise fees and royalties contributing to its earnings.
6. What is the average salary of a Panda Express employee?
The average salary for a Panda Express employee can vary depending on the position and location. However, as of 2021, the average hourly wage for a cashier is around $10, while a shift manager can earn around $14 per hour.
7. How much does it cost to open a Panda Express franchise?
The initial investment required to open a Panda Express franchise ranges from $2.1 million to $5.2 million, including the franchise fee, which is $45,000.
8. What is the Panda Express franchise fee?
The franchise fee for opening a Panda Express restaurant is $45,000.
9. How much does Panda Express spend on advertising?
Panda Express spends approximately $20 million to $30 million annually on advertising and marketing efforts.
10. What are the most popular menu items at Panda Express?
Some of the most popular menu items at Panda Express include Orange Chicken, Kung Pao Chicken, and Broccoli Beef. The restaurant also offers a variety of sides, such as Fried Rice and Chow Mein, as well as appetizers like Egg Rolls and Spring Rolls.
