Jerry Resigns from Ben & Jerry’s Amid Unilever Dispute Over Gaza
Ben & Jerry’s co-founder Jerry Greenfield has announced his resignation from the iconic ice cream brand after 47 years, citing a deepening conflict with its parent company, Unilever, over the company’s stance on the Gaza conflict. In an emotional open letter shared by his partner Ben Cohen, Greenfield expressed that he could no longer remain with the company “in good conscience.” He emphasized the importance of the brand’s independence to uphold values such as peace and justice, which he believes have been compromised under Unilever’s ownership.
Resignation Amidst Growing Tensions
Jerry Greenfield’s departure marks a significant moment for Ben & Jerry’s, a company known for its commitment to social justice and activism. In his letter, Greenfield described his resignation as one of the most challenging decisions of his life. He praised the dedication of the employees who embody the brand’s values, stating, “They are the soul of Ben & Jerry’s.” The rift between Ben & Jerry’s and Unilever became public in 2021 when the ice cream maker announced it would cease sales in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. This decision led to a legal battle, with Ben & Jerry’s accusing Unilever of attempting to suppress its voice on critical social issues.
Greenfield’s resignation is not just a personal decision; it reflects broader political dynamics in the United States. He linked his departure to the current administration’s perceived attacks on civil rights and social justice, asserting that the company’s ability to advocate for these values has been stifled. He lamented, “Standing up for the values of justice, equity, and our shared humanity has never been more important,” highlighting the challenges faced by companies that wish to maintain a strong ethical stance in today’s political climate.
Unilever’s Response and Future Plans
In response to Greenfield’s resignation, a spokesperson for Unilever’s ice cream division expressed disagreement with his perspective. The company has sought to engage both co-founders in discussions aimed at reinforcing Ben & Jerry’s values-based mission. Unilever clarified that Greenfield’s resignation as a brand ambassador does not involve him in the ongoing lawsuit between the two entities. The company did not provide further comments regarding the situation.
As Ben & Jerry’s navigates this tumultuous period, it is also calling for a spin-off ahead of a planned listing of Magnum Ice Cream in November. This move comes after years of tension with Unilever over its outspoken stance on the Gaza conflict. Ben Cohen, Greenfield’s partner, has been vocal about the need to “free Ben & Jerry’s” to safeguard its social mission, a sentiment that has been met with resistance from Unilever’s new Magnum CEO, Peter ter Kulve.
A Legacy of Activism
Founded in 1978 by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield in a renovated gas station in Vermont, Ben & Jerry’s has long been recognized for its commitment to social causes. The brand has maintained its socially conscious ethos even after its acquisition by Unilever in 2000. Greenfield’s resignation underscores the ongoing struggle between corporate interests and the desire for social activism within the company.
Greenfield’s letter reflects a profound sense of loss regarding the brand’s original mission. He stated, “It was always about more than just ice cream; it was a way to spread love and invite others into the fight for equity, justice, and a better world.” His departure signals a pivotal moment for Ben & Jerry’s as it confronts the challenges of balancing its founding values with the realities of corporate ownership. As the company moves forward, the future of its social mission remains uncertain amid the ongoing tensions with Unilever.
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