NRG, the premier gaming and entertainment powerhouse, announces a strategic partnership with Panda Express, the largest family-owned and operated Asian dining concept in the U.S. This flavorful fusion will focus on Rocket League, one of the most critically acclaimed sports games of all time, and together, these two dynamic brands leverage their ethos of innovation with the power of customization. The partnership will deliver an unparalleled fusion of adrenaline-fueled competition and flavor-packed entertainment.
NRG boasts the longest running, winning team in the history of Rocket League Champion Series (RLCS), including 2019 World Champions and five-time North American RLCS Champions, among other accolades. With this legendary history of championship victories and a reputation for delivering high-octane gaming lifestyle content, NRG stands as the most-viewed gaming organization globally. Panda Express, synonymous with delivering a flavorful taste of American Chinese cuisine, has long been the go-to restaurant for families and food enthusiasts across the nation. Known for its commitment to quality, service, and culinary innovation, Panda Express continues to serve up moments of joy and satisfaction through its beloved menu offerings. A testament to the forward-thinking vision of both NRG and Panda Express, this partnership aims to fuse the high-energy world of gaming with the flavorful offerings of Panda Express.
This collaboration not only merges the high-octane excitement of Rocket League with the mouth-watering flavors of Panda Express, but also underscores the social nature of both gaming and dining. Just as Rocket League brings friends together in spirited competition, Panda Express serves as a gathering place for communities to connect over meals. By combining a unique blend of American innovation and Chinese tradition and paralleling NRG’s trailblazing ethos in the esports arena, the two have created the perfect reflection of the pioneering spirit and commitment to individuality and customization embodied by both companies. Together, NRG and Panda Express are crafting an experience that transcends the screen, celebrating the joy of competition, creativity, and community.
“Both of our brands recognize the importance of shared experiences in bringing communities together. Just as NRG forges connections through gaming, Panda Express invites guests to connect over good food,” says Fabiola del Rio, Vice President of Integrated Marketing Communications. “This partnership celebrates the inherent social nature of dining and gaming experiences, inviting fans to savor the thrill of victory and the deliciousness of American Chinese cuisine.”
Highlights of the collaboration include:
Mission Control Integration: Panda Express will feature prominently in NRG’s official Mission Control broadcasts, with casters enjoying Panda Express meals on air and exclusive Panda Express branded content airing during breaks.
Custom Panda Express Pre Game Content: Each Mission Control broadcast of the 2024 RLCS season will start with the Panda Express Pre Game. Casters will break down each match of the day while chowing down on their favorite Panda Express meal.
Panda Express Wok & Roll Giveaway: Good fortune awaits those that support NRG and Panda Express! During Mission Control broadcasts, NRG will give away Panda Express gift cards and more to viewers.
TikTok Takeovers: Utilizing a mix of NRG’s high profile Rocket League talent and the org’s LA-based Castle Crew content creator collective, NRG will create multiple original content pieces to feature on NRG’s massive TikTok platform boasting 3.3 million followers
“NRG has always been at the forefront of innovation in the esports industry, and our collaboration with Panda Express marks a monumental leap forward.” says Hauk Nelson, Director of Business Development for NRG. “This partnership goes beyond the screen, bringing a taste of excitement and community to our fans. Together with Panda Express, we’re setting the stage for a whole new kind of engagement, where the thrill of gaming meets the joy of great food. We’re thrilled to integrate Panda Express into the NRG family and can’t wait to see the energy and enthusiasm this partnership will bring to our Rocket League and broader esports initiatives.”
This partnership marks the beginning of an innovative chapter in the synergy between gaming and craveable cuisine, promising an array of engaging content, unique experiences, and a testament to the power of collaborative innovation.
