Ben & Jerry’s co-founder Jerry Greenfield has resigned from the ice cream company after nearly five decades due to a dispute with its parent company, Unilever.
In a statement shared by his co-founder Ben Cohen, Greenfield expressed feeling “silenced” by Unilever’s actions that hindered his social activism. He stated that he could no longer continue as an employee of Ben & Jerry’s in good conscience after 47 years.
Having established the renowned ice cream brand with Ben Cohen in Vermont, US in 1978, Greenfield emphasized that his decision to step down was one of the most challenging and agonizing choices he has ever had to make.
Unilever acquired Ben & Jerry’s in 2000, but tensions have arisen between the company and its founders in recent times, primarily over political and social matters.
The founders contended that Unilever had promised Ben & Jerry’s autonomy, including an independent board. The conflict escalated in 2021 when Ben & Jerry’s opted not to distribute ice cream in Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories.
Responding to this move, Unilever sold the brand in the region to its Israeli licensee. Furthermore, Ben & Jerry’s alleged that Unilever had pressured the brand to cease publicly criticizing Donald Trump.
Recently, both Cohen and Greenfield urged for the brand’s independence from its parent company and to operate autonomously once more. However, Magnum clarified that Ben & Jerry’s was not up for sale and would remain within the group.
In his resignation letter, Greenfield lamented the loss of independence that was fundamental to their agreement with Unilever. He emphasized that Ben & Jerry’s was more than just an ice cream brand; it was a platform to advocate for equality, justice, and a better world.
Greenfield concluded by stating that since Ben & Jerry’s no longer aligned with these values, he could no longer be associated with the brand.
Ben & Jerry’s is set to be separated from Unilever and incorporated into The Magnum Ice Cream Company, which is preparing for a stock market debut.
A spokesperson for The Magnum Ice Cream Company expressed gratitude to Jerry for his pivotal role in co-founding the ice cream company and transforming his passion for delicious treats and social causes into a remarkable success story. The spokesperson acknowledged Jerry’s contributions and wished him well in his future endeavors.
Despite differing perspectives, The Magnum Ice Cream Company remains dedicated to Ben & Jerry’s tripartite mission encompassing product, economic, and social aspects. The company is committed to upholding the brand’s legacy of promoting peace, love, and ice cream.
Ben & Jerry’s continues to thrive under The Magnum Ice Cream Company, and the company looks forward to advancing its prosperity further.