Aurelio's Pizza Released Limited-Edition Pope Boxes
The commemorative boxes celebrate National Pizza Month and the chain's 67th anniversary in Chicago.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Italian Food
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Aurelio's Pizza has launched 7,000 limited-edition pizza boxes featuring Pope Leo XIV to mark the brand's 67th anniversary. The promotion coincides with National Pizza Month and highlights the long-standing relationship between the Chicago-born Pope and the restaurant chain.
Why it matters
The campaign celebrates a unique cultural connection dating back to 1969, while also updating the company's branding after more than 30 years without a design change. This promotional milestone serves to drive engagement at 32 local restaurant locations.
Aurelio's produced 7,000 boxes available with the purchase of a large Poperoni Pizza, which retails between $31 and $37. This marks the first design change for the chain's packaging in over 30 years.
The players
Aurelio's Pizza
This Chicago-based pizza chain is celebrating its 67th anniversary of operations.
Pope Leo XIV
Born in Bronzeville, this religious leader has maintained a connection to the pizza chain since 1969.
The details
Customers can obtain the limited-edition boxes by ordering a large Poperoni Pizza at any of the 32 participating locations. The box lid features a specialized cutout for photos, and the rear includes a QR code that directs users to a video featuring Pope Leo XIV.
Timeline
The connection between the Pope and Aurelio's began in 1969.
Pope Leo XIV visited the Homewood restaurant in August 2024.
The Pope received a pizza in St. Peter's Square in July 2025.
The promotion runs throughout National Pizza Month in October 2026.
Culture Shift
This campaign reflects a broader trend of brands leveraging historical nostalgia and niche pop culture connections to refresh aging brand identities. By integrating interactive elements like QR codes and photo cutouts, the chain aligns with modern consumer desires for shareable, experience-based dining.
Chicago residents can purchase the Poperoni Pizza at 32 locations to secure the commemorative box while supplies last. Customers should note that the pizza is priced between $31 and $37, representing a specific premium for the limited-edition packaging experience.
The takeaway
Collectors interested in the limited-edition Pope Leo XIV box should visit a participating location early in October to ensure availability before supplies are exhausted. The inclusion of a photo cutout and QR link suggests the brand is actively targeting social media engagement with this promotion.
Further reading
Learn more about local culinary culture in our guide to Italian Food.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Block Club Chicago.
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