Controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2021
Lawsuit alleges sexual battery at Panda Express-sanctioned seminar
Lawsuit filed
A former Panda Express employee sued Panda Express, alleging sexual battery and emotional distress after she was compelled to strip to her underwear at a company-sanctioned seminar. The allegations are claims in the lawsuit, not a court determination.
Company response
Investigation — Panda Restaurant Group
Panda Restaurant Group, the chain’s parent company, said in a statement it was taking the allegations “very seriously” and conducting an investigation.
Source excerpt
Panda Restaurant Group, the chain’s parent company, said in a statement it was taking the allegations “very seriously” and conducting an investigation.
Jennifer Spargifiore said she was told that a four-day self-improvement program with Alive Seminars and Coaching Academy was her only ticket to promotion at the Chinese fast-food chain, according to a lawsuit filed in L.A. Superior Court late last month.
A 23-year-old woman is suing Panda Express for sexual battery and emotional distress, claiming she was compelled to strip “almost naked” and engage in other bizarre activities during a company-sanctioned workshop.
2013
Hawaii sexual-harassment settlement
Panda Express agreed to a $150,000 settlement in an EEOC action concerning alleged sexual harassment of at least three female teenage employees by a kitchen supervisor. The company also revised policies and provided anti-discrimination and harassment training.
2011
EEOC discrimination lawsuit
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission sued Panda Express over allegations that Hispanic employees were treated differently from Asian employees.