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