Jerry Greenfield, co-founder of the renowned ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s, has announced his departure from the company. His exit comes as a result of the eroding independence that he and fellow co-founder Ben Cohen had established within the company’s governance structure when they sold the enterprise to Unilever over 20 years ago.
In a public statement, Greenfield conveyed his deep sadness and regret over his decision to leave the company. He stated, “It’s with a broken heart that I’ve decided I can no longer, in good conscience, and after 47 years, remain an employee of Ben & Jerry’s.” Greenfield clarified that his decision to leave was not due to a loss of affection for his colleagues at the company, but rather due to the company’s dwindling autonomy.
Ben & Jerry’s, which was acquired by Unilever in 2000, has a well-known reputation for advocating social justice issues. Greenfield noted that the company has traditionally used its independence to take a stance and vocalize their support for peace, justice, and human rights in relation to real-world events. He expressed his profound disappointment over the fact that this independence, which was a fundamental condition of their sale to Unilever, has disappeared.
In response to Greenfield’s exit, a spokesperson for Unilever expressed the company’s gratitude for Greenfield’s tenure and contributions. Although the spokesperson mentioned that the company disagreed with Greenfield’s standpoint, they extended their appreciation to him for his decades of service and wished him all the best in his future endeavors. The spokesperson also mentioned the company’s attempts to involve both co-founders in discussions aimed at reinforcing Ben & Jerry’s value-based position in the world.
Why has Jerry Greenfield decided to leave Ben & Jerry’s?
Greenfield has chosen to leave due to the perceived loss of the company’s independence, which he believes was a fundamental aspect of the company’s sale to Unilever.
What was Ben & Jerry’s reputation prior to its acquisition by Unilever?
Prior to its acquisition by Unilever, Ben & Jerry’s was known for its outspoken stance on various social justice issues. The company often used its independent status to vocalize support for peace, justice, and human rights in relation to real-world events.
What was Unilever’s reaction to Greenfield’s departure?
Unilever expressed gratitude for Greenfield’s contributions and service to the company, despite disagreeing with his perspective on the company’s autonomy. The company also conveyed their attempts to involve both co-founders in discussions aimed at bolstering Ben & Jerry’s value-based position in the world.
