Ben & Jerry's is now just…Ben

Core Viewpoint - The departure of co-founder Jerry Greenfield from Ben & Jerry's highlights tensions between the brand and its parent company Unilever, particularly regarding social activism and corporate independence [1][2][3] Company Changes - Jerry Greenfield is stepping down after nearly 50 years with Ben & Jerry's, citing a clash with Unilever as the reason for his departure [1] - Unilever is in the process of spinning off its ice cream business into a standalone entity called the Magnum Ice Cream Company [3] Social Activism and Brand Values - Greenfield expressed that the brand's mission has always been about more than just ice cream, emphasizing values of equity, justice, and social activism [2][3] - The company faced significant tensions with Unilever after its 2021 decision to stop sales in the Israeli occupied West Bank, which Greenfield believes has led to a silencing of the brand on global issues [2] Company Perspective - Unilever disagrees with Greenfield's perspective and claims to have sought constructive dialogue with both co-founders to strengthen Ben & Jerry's value-based position [3]