Wed, 17 Sep 2025

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 Ben & Jerry's co-founder quits over social activism row

His resignation marks the latest development in a dispute with parent company Unilever.
Jerry Greenfield, co-founder of Ben & Jerry's, has left the company after almost 50 years due to disagreements with parent company Unilever over the brand's social activism. Greenfield stated that Unilever's actions had silenced the brand and he could no longer work for a business that compromised its values. He cited an agreement from 2000 that protected the brand's social mission, which Unilever allegedly breached by restricting Ben & Jerry's activism. Unilever responded by saying they disagreed with Greenfield's perspective and had tried to engage in constructive dialogue with him. The company also stated that it was grateful for Greenfield's contributions but felt his decision to leave was not justified. Ben Cohen, the other co-founder of Ben & Jerry's, shared Greenfield's letter on social media, expressing support for his former partner. This is not the first time there has been tension between Unilever and the founders over the brand's values and activism. The dispute started in 2021 when Ben & Jerry's announced it would stop selling ice cream in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. In recent years, Unilever has faced criticism for attempting to rein in Ben & Jerry's activism, particularly on issues related to Israel and Gaza. Greenfield's departure marks a significant blow to Ben & Jerry's independence, which has been at the heart of the brand's identity since its founding in 1978. The company's commitment to social causes has been a key factor in its success and appeal to customers. Unilever's actions have sparked outrage from supporters of Ben & Jerry's, who feel that the parent company is stifling the brand's values and mission. Greenfield's decision to leave the company reflects his commitment to the brand's original values and principles.
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