Ben & Jerry's Gaza controversy: Cofounder Jerry Greenfield quits

Ben & Jerry’s Gaza controversy deepens as cofounder Jerry Greenfield resigns, citing Unilever’s restrictions on the brand’s social activism and mission. Ben & Jerry’s cofounder Jerry Greenfield has resigned after nearly 50 years. He criticized parent company Unilever for limiting the brand’s social mission, especially regarding Gaza. Greenfield said he could no longer work “in good conscience” under these conditions.

In an open letter shared by business partner Ben Cohen, Greenfield called leaving the company “one of the hardest and most painful decisions” of his life.

Ongoing Tensions Between Ben & Jerry’s and Unilever

Tensions started in 2021, when Ben & Jerry’s announced it would stop selling ice cream in the occupied West Bank, saying the sales conflicted with its values. Since then, the brand has sued Unilever over efforts to silence its activism.

Greenfield and Cohen are known for their progressive stances. Ben & Jerry’s recently described Israel’s actions in Gaza as “genocide,” a position rarely taken by major U.S. companies.

Activism and Legal Challenges

Ben Cohen was arrested earlier this year for protesting at a U.S. Senate hearing over Washington’s support for Israel’s war in Gaza. Nearly 65,000 people have died in Gaza since the conflict escalated after the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks.

Greenfield said the company’s restrictions undermined the original merger agreement, which was designed to protect Ben & Jerry’s independence and activism.

Unilever’s Response

Unilever rejected Greenfield’s claims. A spokesperson said they value the brand’s mission but disagree with the cofounder’s perspective. Magnum Ice Cream Company, affiliated with Unilever, also expressed gratitude for Greenfield’s role in building the company.

Recently, Ben & Jerry’s proposed selling the company at a fair market value of $1.5–$2.5 billion, but Unilever reportedly rejected the offer.

Legacy of Social Activism

Ben & Jerry’s has long championed social causes, from climate action to racial justice. Greenfield’s departure highlights the tension between corporate governance and activism.

Supporters will closely watch whether the brand continues to uphold its progressive mission under Unilever’s control.

Ben & Jerry’s Gaza controversy.