End of an Era: Jerry Greenfield Departs Ben & Jerry's

Jerry Greenfield, co-founder of Ben & Jerry's, is stepping down after 47 years, citing lost independence to address social issues under Unilever's ownership. Greenfield laments the erosion of the company's ability to champion peace, justice, and human rights as a result of corporate governance changes.

After nearly half a century with Ben & Jerry's, co-founder Jerry Greenfield is bidding farewell to the iconic ice cream brand. Greenfield's departure stems from dissatisfaction with Unilever, the brand's parent company since 2000, which he claims has stifled the company's independence to advocate on social issues.

In a heartfelt letter shared by fellow co-founder Ben Cohen on social media platform X, Greenfield expressed regret over the diminishing autonomy to speak out on matters like peace, justice, and human rights. He reminisced about the days when Ben & Jerry's boldly supported real-world events through its social mission.

Greenfield reflected on the unique merger agreement negotiated with Unilever, which aimed to protect the company's commitment to social causes. Nonetheless, he pointed out that this independence, once thought to be embedded in the company's governance, has faded, marking a disheartening end to an era.

(With inputs from agencies.)