Jerry Greenfield Resigns from Ben & Jerry’s
Jerry Greenfield, one of the co-founders of Ben & Jerry’s, has stepped down from the company after 47 years. He cited a loss of the brand’s “independence” in advocating for social justice because of its parent company, Unilever.
Ben Cohen, Greenfield’s fellow co-founder, shared an open letter via X, indicating that Jerry faced a “difficult decision” to leave the company they established together.
“His legacy deserves to be true to our values, instead of being overshadowed by @magnumglobal,” Cohen noted.
In March, Unilever announced plans to spin off its ice cream business, which includes brands like Magnum and Ben & Jerry’s. This separation is slated to be finalized by the end of 2025, with public listings expected in Amsterdam, London, and New York.
“I’m no longer a conscience, and it breaks my heart to make this decision after 47 years,” Greenfield expressed. He reflected on his return to the company in 1978, calling his resignation one of the toughest choices he’s ever faced.
“The independence that drew Unilever to acquire us has faded,” he explained. “For over two decades under their ownership, we stood up for peace, justice, and human rights, connecting to real-world events, not just abstract ideas.”
The founders have been vocal about their progressive political beliefs. Their website highlights issues like racial justice, and they openly support movements such as Black Lives Matter.
“I must say his name: George Floyd,” the company mentioned in a prior communication.
Ben & Jerry’s has also voiced its support for the LGBTQ+ community, expressing concern for trans individuals facing threats.
Despite stating that they are “nonpartisan” and do not endorse political candidates or parties, both co-founders participated in a voting initiative featuring free ice cream to support Kamala Harris and the Democrats. They even introduced a flavor called “Kamala’s Coconut Jubilee,” honoring the 2024 Democratic presidential candidate.
Last November, Ben & Jerry’s took legal action against Unilever in federal court, claiming that their statements in support of Palestinians had been muted. The complaint accused Unilever of preventing the company from addressing personal issues related to President Trump’s second term.
“It’s disheartening to realize that the independence we once valued is gone,” Greenfield remarked. He pointed out that this occurs at a time when civil rights and voting rights are under threat from our current administration.
“If we hadn’t started the company in the first place, it wouldn’t have been worth it,” he added. “This has always been more than ice cream; it’s been about spreading love and encouraging others to strive for a better world.”
A representative from Magnum Ice Cream acknowledged Greenfield’s contributions but expressed disagreement with his perspective, emphasizing the need for dialogue among the co-founders to strengthen Ben & Jerry’s commitment to its core values.
“We remain dedicated to Ben & Jerry’s unique mission—Product, Economic, and Social—which continues to foster the peace, love, and ice cream legacy of this iconic brand,” the statement from Magnum affirmed.
