DQ Grill & Chill vs Panda Express
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both DQ Grill & Chill and Panda Express are quick-service restaurants franchises. DQ Grill & Chill requires an investment of $1.5M – $2.4M while Panda Express requires $515K – $3.3M. In terms of revenue, Panda Express reports higher average unit revenue at $1.6M. FranchiseVerdict rates DQ Grill & Chill A (Top Quintile) and Panda Express A (Top Quintile).
| Metric | DQ Grill & Chill | Panda Express |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | ATop QuintileTop Quintile | ATop QuintileTop Quintile |
| Investment Range | $1.5M – $2.4M | $515K – $3.3M |
| Franchise Fee | $45K | $25K |
| Royalty Rate | 4.0% | Greater of 8% of Gross Volume or $4,000 per 4-week period |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.4M | $1.6M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | N/A | Limited data |
| Total Units | 1,954 | 2,502 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1962 | 2004 |
| FDD Year | 2022 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$1.5M – $2.4M
$515K – $3.3M
Franchise Fee
$45K
$25K
Royalty Rate
4.0%
Greater of 8% of Gross Volume or $4,000 per 4-week period
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.4M
$1.6M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
N/A
Limited data
Total Units
1,954
2,502
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1962
2004
FDD Year
2022
2025