Yianni’s Gyros has closed at the Fresh Market at Hershey Towne Square in Derry Township.
Owners John and Amanda Politsopoulos announced the closure in an Aug. 23 Facebook post.
“We cannot thank you enough for every smile, laugh, and meal we’ve shared together. From freshly shaved gyros to sweet baklava, you welcomed our family recipes into your lives and made us feel like part of your own. For that, we will be forever grateful,” they said.
Yianni’s debuted in 2022 at the Fresh Market.
The family-operated Yianni’s is also headed by Politsopoulos’ parents, Chris and Maria Politsopoulos. Previously the family operated John’s Diner in Fairview Township.
The restaurants specialize in authentic homemade foods such as stuffed grape leaves, Greek salads, spinach pies and souvlaki.
“Though this chapter is closing, our journey is far from over. Hershey was our stepping stone, and thanks to your support, Yianni’s has grown into multiple locations across Central Pa.,” they shared on the post.
The family operates other restaurants at 3911 Union Deposit Road at the Union Square Shopping Center in Susquehanna Township, two York County locations and a food truck at Hersheypark.
Later this year they are opening an outpost at the former Subway at the Blue Mountain Commons off Linglestown Road in Susquehanna Township.
In their post, the Politsopouloses said that while they were profitable, the market’s atmosphere has made it increasingly difficult for vendors to do business.
“Reduced days and hours, limited communication, missed opportunities for community events, and competing concepts placed right beside us have made it harder to thrive,” they said.
As much as they tried to share ideas, the family said their concerns were not answered.
“As much as we love our customers, it became clear that the environment was no longer aligned with the spirit of growth and collaboration we believe in,” they said.
Yianni’s is not the only vendor to leave the market this summer. Freshido and Moore Desserts by Julie left to pursue other projects.
“Ultimately, we’re here to support a diverse and balanced market environment,” said Market Manager Lisa Shull. “We appreciate everyone’s perspective and remain dedicated to decisions that help the entire market thrive as a whole.”
Shull called the market an incubator for small business and said several former vendors including Kimchee Girl have expanded beyond the market.
“A closed stand does not mean failure. It means a new opportunity. Every vendor who graduates creates space for another entrepreneur’s dream to take root,” she added.
The market recently welcomed Pikku Piru with gourmet small batch finishing sauces and Noodle King with pho, while Fans Cuisine is expanding, and A&M Pizza opened another location.
The market is open year-round Thursday-Saturday.
“In this case, it’s important to note that our current operating days reflect the reality that not all vendors can staff more days, nor does the current customer traffic support extended hours,” Shull said.
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Dining and Cooking