A plan to redevelop Lappeenranta’s Market Square is causing distress among local vendors and patrons. The proposed changes involve a significant overhaul of the square and the adjacent market hall. At the heart of the issue are the iconic hydrogen and atomic pie kiosks of Lappeenranta, popular with both residents and tourists, and their uncertain future. Concerns center around a potential shift in landlord responsibilities from the City of Lappeenranta to Etelä-Karjalan Osuuskauppa (EK), a cooperative. Market traders and regular customers fear the redevelopment will negatively impact the area’s unique character and potentially displace established businesses. The plan is being described as painting a worrying picture for the future of Lappeenranta's central market area.