Jerry Greenfield, co-founder of the iconic ice cream brand Ben & Jerry's, has announced his resignation, harshly criticizing Unilever. "Independence, the very basis of our business, is now gone," he wrote in a message posted on social media today, September 17.
Greenfield explained that the decision comes after years of growing friction with the Anglo-Dutch multinational, accused of progressively limiting the brand's freedom to express its social values. "Ben & Jerry's has been silenced, sidelined for fear of upsetting those in power," he added, citing the issues of justice, civil rights, and community protection that the company has always championed.
Just a week ago, Greenfield and co-founder Ben Cohen wrote to Unilever, requesting that the brand return to operating as an independent company, rather than being incorporated into the new entity The Magnum Ice Cream Company (TMICC), the spin-off set to be launched in November. The response was clear: "Ben & Jerry's is a proud part of TMICC and is not for sale."
The split comes after a long series of tensions. Since 2000, the year of their acquisition by Unilever, the two founders have often challenged the giant's management, accusing it of stifling the brand's social mission. In 2024, Ben & Jerry's reported attempts to censor their statements against Donald Trump and in favor of Palestinian refugees.
Greenfield recalled his early days in Burlington, Vermont, in 1978: “After 47 years, I am heartbroken and can no longer conscientiously remain.” A painful decision, it marks the symbolic end of an era for one of the most iconic global food brands.
