Ben & Jerry’s co-founder Jerry Greenfield is officially stepping away from the company he built, saying he can no longer work in “good conscience” with its parent company, Unilever.
The Decision To Step Down
In a statement, Greenfield admitted the move was one of the hardest choices of his life. “I am resigning from the company Ben and I started back in 1978. This is one of the hardest and most painful decisions I’ve ever made,” he said. Greenfield explained that after 20 years under Unilever, he feels the company’s promise to let Ben & Jerry’s continue to speak out on human rights and social justice has come to an end, according to TOO FAB.
Greenfield criticized Unilever for silencing the company’s activist voice. “And it’s happening at a time when our country’s current administration is attacking civil rights, voting rights, the rights of immigrants, women, and the LGBTQ community,” he said. “Standing up for the values of justice, equity, and our shared humanity has never been more important, and yet Ben & Jerry’s has been silenced, sidelined for fear of upsetting those in power.”
Ben Cohen’s Response
Ben Cohen, the other co-founder, confirmed Greenfield’s departure. Together, they are asking customers to sign a petition demanding that Ben & Jerry’s be separated from Unilever and Magnum Global, which they argue will enable the company to return to its activist roots freely.
Since its founding in 1978, Ben & Jerry’s has been recognized not only for its innovative flavors but also for its social activism. From climate justice to racial equality, the brand has often used its platform to amplify causes. Greenfield’s resignation highlights his fear that those values are no longer being honored under Unilever’s control.
What’s Next For Ben & Jerry’s
With Greenfield stepping away, the future of the company’s activist voice is uncertain. While employees remain dedicated to its mission, many wonder if the brand will continue to speak out on justice issues or fully align with Unilever’s corporate strategy. For Greenfield and Cohen, the fight is far from over—they are calling on loyal customers to take action.