Juts because the Pope hates capitalism doesn’t mean you can’t make some dollars on his visit, right? That’s at least Aramark’s stance – also selling so much merch – as they’re hawking “Family Packs” of lunch inside the Parkway security perimeter. Here’s what the packages look like (there’s a two pack and a four pack):

  • (2 or 4) Tastykakes in a WMOF Collectible Tin
  • (2 or 4) Commemorative Pope Cards with Medal
  • (2 or 4) Grab n Go Sandwiches
  • (2 or 4) Federal Soft Pretzels with Mustard
  • (2 or 4) Assorted Potato Chips
  • (2 or 4) Drinks of your choice

And now let’s see the math of what all that would cost, via Billy Penn:

Large hoagie….$6.69
Chips….$1.50
Soft pretzel…$0.50
Mustard….$0.50 (sometimes it’s free, but)
Tastykakes….$1.79
Drink….$1.99

Total for one person: $12.97
Sales tax (8%): $1.04

For two people (inclusive of sales tax): $28.02

For two people, the package on the Parkway costs $70 (!!!), which is either a 250% markup, or you better be getting $42 worth of Pope junk (the Pope cards with medals go for $5 online). For four people? It’s $125 for $56 worth of food (a 220% jump). There’s nothing like taking advantage of some fanatics.

Kyle: Pretty sure this is where Philly Jesus has to come in and flip the tables.

UPDATE: But we’re greedy for asking readers to answer a short survey: