Our Legacy
1960s:
The 2nd Generation
By 1962, Pronio's had once again outgrown its space, thanks to the Hershey community's continued support. Michele's son, Vince, moved the store to a larger, newly constructed building across the street, adding much-needed parking for their growing number of customers from out of town. Vince also introduced a dedicated fresh meat department, prioritizing quality and personalized attention. No request was too big or small; special orders were always welcome, and cuts were tailored to individual preferences. Father Michele and son Vince worked hand-in-hand, dedicated to serving the Hershey community.
2020s:
Same Excellent Service,
More Authentic Products
Today, Mike is still leading Pronio's ensuring that small town service and hospitality continues in a world that seems to lose that personal touch day after day.
His sons, James and Matt, are also involved; working to improve the quality of Italian products in the store. Every year, they spend several weeks traveling Italy, visiting with artisans, walking the fields, and touring production facilities to find the most authentic, and highest quality foods to offer our customers. You can now find Pronio's Ancient Grain Pasta, and Sicilian DOP Extra Virgin Olive Oil on the shelves, with more to come! When you see Pronio’s on a label, you know it’s the best.
1919: Hershey, PA
From Spring Creek to Caracas
Pronio's started with Michele Pronio, delivering groceries on his back in town. This evolved into a humble "parlor market" in Michele and his wife Rose Pronio's Spring Creek home (where Hershey's Chocolate World now stands). This single room was a bustling hub, offering a diverse array of goods, even including crates of grapes for homemade wine.
It was Michele and Rose's deep passion for food and community that propelled their business forward. They soon expanded to a dedicated storefront at Valley and Caracas, transforming the first floor of their new home into the market. Here, they built their reputation on exceptional personal service and quality products.
1980s:
The 3rd Generation
In the 1980s, Vince's son, Mike, joined the store after business school. As Hershey evolved and many local "mom and pop" shops closed, Mike has steadily walked the line of upholding our tradition of quality foods and exceptional service while adapting to modern times. He's ensured we remain the independent, family-owned and operated market in town for the past 40 years and beyond, as Pronio's recently celebrated it's 100th birthday in 2019.
Documentary
Pronio's: A Cornerstone of Hershey History
Learn more about the history of our family store in the documentary Pronio's: A Cornerstone of Hershey History by filmmaker Michael Accorsi.
Run time: 20 minutes