For many of us who grew up eating at Panda Express, the old logo holds a special place in our hearts. The bright, playful design featuring a smiling panda with a wok evokes memories of family dinners and fast food runs with friends. However, in 2019, the company unveiled a new logo, leaving many fans wondering what happened to the old one.
Contents
The History of the Old Panda Express Logo
The original Panda Express logo was designed in 1983 by Peggy Cherng, the co-founder of the restaurant chain. The design featured a cartoon panda holding a wok, with the restaurant name written in bold, red letters. This logo remained largely unchanged for over three decades, becoming an iconic symbol of Chinese fast food in America.
Over the years, the logo underwent a few minor tweaks, such as changes in font and color. However, the basic design remained intact, and customers continued to associate it with the Panda Express brand.
The New Logo Controversy
In 2019, Panda Express unveiled a new logo, which features a more realistic and serious-looking panda. The new design also incorporates a Chinese calligraphy-inspired font, giving the logo a more traditional and sophisticated look.
While some customers praised the new logo for its modernization and cultural sensitivity, many others expressed disappointment and nostalgia for the old design. Some even started online petitions calling for the company to bring back the old logo.
The Legacy of the Old Panda Express Logo
Despite the controversy surrounding the new logo, the old design will always hold a special place in the hearts of Panda Express fans. The playful and friendly panda image became a beloved symbol of the restaurant chain, representing not just the food but also the company’s values of hospitality and inclusivity.
Moreover, the old logo was a reflection of the cultural zeitgeist of the time. In the 1980s and 1990s, Chinese cuisine was becoming more popular in America, and Panda Express was at the forefront of this trend. The bright colors and cartoonish design of the old logo captured the fun and excitement of this cultural moment.
The Importance of Branding
The controversy over the old and new Panda Express logos highlights the importance of branding in the fast food industry. A logo is not just a visual representation of a company; it also embodies the company’s values, mission, and identity. Changing a logo can therefore have a significant impact on how customers perceive a brand.
In the case of Panda Express, the new logo represents a shift towards a more upscale and sophisticated image. While this may appeal to some customers, it may also alienate others who prefer the old logo’s playful and friendly vibe.
Conclusion
Whether you love the old Panda Express logo or prefer the new one, there’s no denying the impact that this iconic design has had on the fast food industry. The old logo represents a bygone era of colorful and fun branding, while the new logo reflects a more mature and refined image. Regardless of which logo you prefer, Panda Express remains a beloved and popular chain that continues to serve up delicious Chinese-inspired cuisine.