Panda Express has expanded its partnership with cleantech company GridPoint to deploy GridPoint Intelligence technology across all its restaurant locations in the US.
The initiative is set to enhance energy efficiency and comfort across 2,500 Panda Express venues during 2024 and the first half of 2025.
The collaboration between Panda Express and GridPoint has already seen a successful trial across 200 restaurant locations, yielding measurable savings in energy costs and a reduction in CO₂ emissions.
GridPoint CEO Mark Danzenbaker said: “GridPoint was founded 20 years ago with a vision and mission to accelerate the world’s transition to a sustainable energy future.
“We have long admired Panda Express’ commitment to continuous innovation and operational excellence. Panda’s selection to implement GridPoint across all its restaurants is even more meaningful because they centered this decision around what is best for their associates and guests.
“Maximising energy efficiency and decarbonisation in complex commercial buildings requires a technology-driven approach. We are especially proud to partner with Panda in addressing global energy goals, one building, guest and associate at a time.”
GridPoint's smart building technology is designed to automate critical building functions and actively manage energy operations, ensuring optimal temperature comfort for guests and associates.
The technology utilises data analytics, patented algorithms and intelligent automation to provide detailed insights into complex building operations.
For Panda Express, the technology will ensure better energy management during peak periods.
With the implementation of GridPoint Intelligence, Panda Express will gain control over in-store heating, ventilation, air conditioning and lighting systems across all its US locations.
Facility managers will have access to real-time operational and environmental performance data.
Panda Restaurant Group chief development officer James Ku stated: “We have sought solutions that can deliver data-driven insights, automated energy efficiency and immediate savings by monitoring and controlling energy consumption within our facilities in real-time, and are excited to partner with GridPoint to roll out their energy management system across our store portfolio.
“Optimising our buildings in this manner frees up time and resources for our associates to continue prioritising our core mission, which is to deliver exceptional dining experiences for our guests."
