Archive · 18 Sep 2025
Ben & Jerry's Co-Founder Jerry Greenfield Steps Down
Jerry Greenfield, who started Ben & Jerry's with his friend Ben Cohen, has left the company after almost 50 years.
He said it was a tough decision, as he felt the company had lost its freedom to speak up on social issues since Unilever took over.
Greenfield is leaving because he believes the brand's values aren't being followed the same way anymore.
He met Ben Cohen in middle school.
Jerry Greenfield resigned after nearly five decades.
Greenfield cited loss of independence and company values.
He could no longer remain at Ben & Jerry's, he said.
Ben & Jerry's was sold to Unilever in 2000.
The company is known for creative flavors and activism.
- Who
- Jerry Greenfield
- What
- Resigned from Ben & Jerry's
- When
- Recently
- Where
- Ben & Jerry's
- Why
- Loss of brand independence under Unilever
Greenfield's Perspective
Unilever's Position
Brand Independence
Greenfield's Perspective
The brand lost the freedom to fully pursue its mission.
Unilever's Position
Unclear
Values
Greenfield's Perspective
Core values were being compromised.
Unilever's Position
Unclear
- Event
- Jerry Greenfield resigned from Ben & Jerry's
- Co-founder
- Jerry Greenfield
- Parent Company
- Unilever
- Reason for Resignation
- Loss of brand independence
- Year of Unilever Acquisition
- 2000
- Initial Business
- Ice cream shop
- Initial Business Location
- Burlington, Vermont
Sources
Ben & Jerry’s co-founder quits over Gaza conflict dispute with Unilever - Brand Wagon News
‘Profoundly disappointing’: Ben & Jerry’s co-founder quits, accuses Unilever of silencing brand’s social voice
Ben & Jerry's co-founder Jerry Greenfield resigns amid growing tensions with parent company
"Independence Gone": Ben & Jerry's Co-Founder Quits Over Row With Unilever
Jerry Greenfield quits Ben & Jerry’s after 47 years, slams parent company Unilever on exit
