Panda Express: The Inspiring Journey Of Peggy Cherng And Andrew Cherng

Back in 1967, Peggy Cherng moved from Hong Kong to the U.S. to attend Baker University. Sixteen years later, she and her husband Andrew opened the first Panda Express restaurant in Los Angeles. With a Ph.D. in engineering, Cherng utilized her expertise to modernize operations at Panda Express by incorporating computer technology to track inventory and manage orders—an innovative step in the 1980s. Today, the couple has expanded their brand to over 2,000 locations worldwide, amassing a net worth of $3.1 billion. Yet, for Peggy, the true measure of success lies not just in financial achievements, but in their family's dedication to charitable causes, embodied by their initiative Panda Cares.

Peggy and Andrew's journey to the U.S. was driven by a desire for better education and opportunities. From the onset of Panda Express, they emphasized a core value of prioritizing people, which has shaped their business philosophy. Launched in 1999, Panda Cares serves as the charitable foundation of Panda Express, allowing customers to contribute to various causes. By mid-2020, Panda Cares had raised over $212 million, addressing health, education, and disaster relief for underserved communities.

Education and health are central to Peggy's personal and philanthropic efforts. She believes these elements are crucial for empowering families in need. In response to crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Panda Cares demonstrated its adaptability by establishing the COVID-19 Community Care Fund, donating significant resources to organizations like Feeding America and providing vital PPE to healthcare facilities. Peggy and Andrew are committed to leading by example, inspiring their employees to embrace the spirit of giving back to the community.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Peggy Cherng
• Early Life and Education
• Career Journey
• Philanthropic Efforts
• Contributions to Education and Health
• Final Thoughts

Biography of Peggy Cherng

Early Life and Education

Peggy Cherng's story began in Hong Kong, where she was raised in a culture that values education and hard work. Seeking greater opportunities, she moved to the U.S. in 1967 to attend Baker University. Peggy's strong academic background laid the foundation for her future innovative endeavors in the restaurant industry.

Throughout her academic journey, she earned a Ph.D. in engineering, a rare achievement that equipped her with the skills to revolutionize restaurant operations. This educational experience not only shaped her career but also instilled a commitment to lifelong learning and community service.

Career Journey

In 1983, Peggy and Andrew Cherng took a bold step by opening the first Panda Express restaurant. Their vision was clear: to offer high-quality Chinese food in a fast-casual setting. Utilizing Peggy’s engineering background, they implemented technology-driven solutions to enhance efficiency and customer service, setting Panda Express apart from its competitors.

Over the years, the couple expanded their reach, growing the brand into an internationally recognized name with over 2,000 locations. Their dedication to quality and customer experience has been a cornerstone of their success, allowing them to connect with millions of customers worldwide.

Philanthropic Efforts

Panda Cares, the charitable arm of Panda Express, reflects Peggy and Andrew's commitment to giving back. Officially launched in 1999, it focuses on supporting health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. The organization has partnered with various nonprofits, raising over $212 million to benefit underserved communities.

Panda Cares actively supports programs like the Boys and Girls Club and has established The Panda Cares Scholars Program in collaboration with the United Negro College Fund, providing scholarships to low-income students. Their philanthropic efforts underscore the importance of community engagement and corporate responsibility.

Contributions to Education and Health

Peggy Cherng believes that education and health are fundamental to creating opportunities. Through Panda Cares, she has focused her charitable donations on improving educational access and health resources for families in need. This commitment is evident in their response to crises, including a significant contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to financial support, Panda Cares distributed Personal Protective Equipment to healthcare facilities, showcasing the company's agility in addressing urgent needs. Peggy and Andrew’s leadership exemplifies the power of corporate philanthropy and its impact on society.

Final Thoughts

The journey of Peggy and Andrew Cherng from humble beginnings to entrepreneurs of a global brand is inspiring. Beyond their success with Panda Express, they exemplify the importance of giving back and investing in the community. Their story is a testament to what can be achieved with vision, dedication, and a commitment to making a difference.

As we reflect on their legacy, it is clear that the Cherngs have not only transformed the fast-casual dining landscape but also enriched countless lives through their philanthropic efforts. Their belief in the power of education and health continues to inspire others to join the mission of giving back.