Early Life and Education
Peggy Tsiang Cherng was born in Mawlamyine, Burma (now Myanmar), in 1947 or 1948. She grew up in Hong Kong and attended Clementi Secondary School. She later pursued higher education in the United States, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in applied mathematics from Oregon State University. She continued her studies at the University of Missouri, where she obtained a Master of Science degree in computer science and a Ph.D. in electrical engineering.
Rise to Success
Before entering the restaurant business, Cherng worked as an engineering specialist at McDonnell Douglas and as a technical engineer and software department manager at Comtal Corporation. In 1982, she joined Panda Restaurant Group as Operations Manager. Her expertise in computer systems was crucial in developing the company's operational systems, which improved customer feedback tracking and streamlined operations. In 1983, she co-founded Panda Express with her husband, Andrew Cherng, opening its first location in the Glendale Galleria II mall in California. This marked a pivotal moment, establishing a fast-casual dining model that fueled rapid expansion. Peggy became president of Panda Restaurant Group in 1997 and served as CEO and president until 2003, and co-chair and co-CEO from 2004.
Key Business Strategies
Peggy Cherng played a key role in the technological advancements of Panda Express. By implementing sales and analytics software, she helped make Panda Express the dominant player among Asian limited-service chains in America. The Cherngs have resisted franchising their stores, choosing instead to focus on company-owned locations to maintain quality and consistency. The focus on operational efficiency and strategic expansion has been central to Panda Express's growth, including the development of its iconic Orange Chicken dish.
Philanthropy
Peggy and Andrew Cherng are known for their extensive philanthropy, primarily through Panda Cares, the Cherng Family Trust, and Panda Charitable Foundation. Their philanthropic efforts primarily focus on education, leadership development, and health initiatives. In 2017, they donated $30 million to endow the Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering at Caltech. They have also contributed millions to various hospitals and children's charities. In September 2023, the Cherngs gifted $100 million to City of Hope to establish the Cherng Family Center for Integrative Oncology, aiming to integrate Eastern and Western medicine in cancer treatment.