Jerry Greenfield, co-founder of the iconic ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s, has announced his resignation after nearly five decades with the company. In a heartfelt letter shared by fellow co-founder Ben Cohen, Greenfield expressed that this decision was one of the most challenging he has ever faced. He cited a growing discontent with the influence of parent company Unilever, stating that the brand’s ability to advocate for its social mission had been compromised.
Greenfield articulated his frustration in the letter, saying, “If the company couldn’t stand up for the things we believed, then it wasn’t worth being a company at all.” His resignation comes despite a merger agreement designed to protect the brand’s commitment to social issues, a promise that he now feels has been undermined.
Background on Unilever’s Influence
The tension between Ben & Jerry’s and Unilever has been developing since at least 2021, when the ice cream manufacturer decided to halt sales in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. This move was met with backlash from Unilever, leading to a strained relationship between the two entities. Recently, Cohen revealed that the brand had sought to negotiate a sale to potential investors at a market value between $1.5 billion and $2.5 billion, but this proposal was ultimately rejected by Unilever.
In his letter, Greenfield reflected on the unique merger agreement that allowed for a certain degree of independence for Ben & Jerry’s. He lamented that the company’s original ideals have been stifled under Unilever’s ownership. “That independence existed in no small part because of the unique merger agreement,” he noted, emphasizing that this arrangement is no longer effective in maintaining the company’s values.
The Legal Battle and Future Implications
This discord has escalated to legal action, with Ben & Jerry’s suing Unilever over alleged attempts to suppress the brand’s voice on key issues. Greenfield’s departure raises questions about the future direction of the company and whether it can remain true to its founding principles without the leadership that has championed them.
As of now, both Ben & Jerry’s and Unilever have not provided comments regarding Greenfield’s resignation or the ongoing tensions. With this significant leadership change, the ice cream brand faces a pivotal moment that could redefine its identity and commitment to social activism in the years to come.
