Jerry Greenfield Resigns from Ben & Jerry’s: A Deep Dive into the Ice Cream Giant’s Evolution
Jerry Greenfield Quits Ben & Jerry’s 2025 – Why He Resigned, Net Worth, Unilever Clash & Brand Future Explained USA
Introduction
In a significant turn of events, Jerry Greenfield, co-founder of the iconic ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s, has announced his resignation after 47 years with the company. This move has sparked widespread discussions about the brand's direction, its commitment to social activism, and its relationship with parent company Unilever. In this post, we delve into the reasons behind Greenfield's departure, the history of Ben & Jerry’s, and the implications of this change for the brand and its consumers.
The Founding of Ben & Jerry’s
Ben & Jerry’s was founded in 1978 by childhood friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield in Burlington, Vermont. What started as a small ice cream parlor has grown into a global brand known for its unique flavors and commitment to social causes. The duo's approach combined high-quality ingredients with a strong message of peace, love, and ice cream.
The 2000 Acquisition by Unilever
In 2000, Ben & Jerry’s was acquired by the British-Dutch multinational company Unilever for $326 million. The acquisition agreement allowed Ben & Jerry’s to operate as an independent subsidiary, maintaining its unique brand identity and commitment to social activism. This arrangement was crucial for the founders, ensuring that their values would continue to influence the company's operations.
The Erosion of Independence
Over the years, tensions between Ben & Jerry’s and Unilever began to surface. In 2021, Ben & Jerry’s made the controversial decision to halt sales in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, a move that led to backlash from Israeli leaders and legal disputes with Unilever. The parent company eventually transferred the brand's rights in the region to an Israeli licensee, a move Ben & Jerry’s opposed.
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These events marked the beginning of a strained relationship, with Ben & Jerry’s accusing Unilever of undermining its social mission. In 2025, the company filed a lawsuit alleging that Unilever had unlawfully removed CEO David Stever in retaliation for the company's political stances. The independent board also accused Unilever of blocking posts supporting Palestinian refugees and other social justice causes.
Jerry Greenfield’s Resignation
In September 2025, Jerry Greenfield announced his resignation from Ben & Jerry’s, citing the loss of independence in advocating for social issues due to Unilever's interference. Greenfield expressed deep disappointment, stating that the company he helped build no longer retains the independence promised during its acquisition. He criticized the current U.S. administration’s stance on civil rights and accused Unilever of prioritizing corporate image over core values.
Fellow co-founder Ben Cohen expressed support for Greenfield’s decision and urged the public to support their cause through the campaign #FreeBenandJerrys.
Jerry Greenfield’s Net Worth
As of 2025, Jerry Greenfield's net worth is estimated to be around $150 million. His wealth primarily stems from his stake in Ben & Jerry’s and the company's success over the decades. Despite stepping down from the company, Greenfield remains a significant figure in the business world, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to social causes.
The Future of Ben & Jerry’s
Following Greenfield's resignation, questions arise about the future direction of Ben & Jerry’s. The brand has always been synonymous with activism, but with the increasing influence of Unilever, its commitment to social issues may be tested. The ongoing legal disputes and public disagreements suggest that Ben & Jerry’s may need to redefine its relationship with its parent company to maintain its core values.
Public Reaction and Support
Greenfield's resignation has garnered support from various quarters, including consumers, activists, and public figures who share his concerns about corporate influence on social issues. The #FreeBenandJerrys campaign has gained traction, with many advocating for the brand to regain its independence. This movement highlights the public's desire for companies to uphold their commitments to social justice and ethical practices.
Conclusion
Jerry Greenfield's resignation marks a pivotal moment in the history of Ben & Jerry’s. It underscores the challenges faced by companies that aim to balance business interests with social activism. As the brand navigates this transition, it will be crucial to observe how it addresses these challenges and whether it can continue to uphold the values that have endeared it to millions of consumers worldwide.
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