KFC vs Panda Express
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both KFC and Panda Express are quick-service restaurants franchises. KFC requires an investment of $1.9M – $3.8M while Panda Express requires $515K – $3.3M. In terms of revenue, Panda Express reports higher average unit revenue at $1.6M. KFC has SBA lending data on file with a 12.3% charge-off rate. FranchiseVerdict rates KFC B (Above average) and Panda Express A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | KFC | Panda Express |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | BAbove averageAbove average | AStrongest tierStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $1.9M – $3.8M | $515K – $3.3M |
| Franchise Fee | $45K | $25K |
| Royalty Rate | 4.0% | 8.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.3M | $1.6M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 12.3% (281 loans) | Limited data |
| Total Units | 3,638 | 2,502 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 2016 | 1995 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$1.9M – $3.8M
$515K – $3.3M
Franchise Fee
$45K
$25K
Royalty Rate
4.0%
8.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.3M
$1.6M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
12.3% (281 loans)
Limited data
Total Units
3,638
2,502
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
2016
1995
FDD Year
2025
2025