Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Holdings Inc., trading and commonly known as Ben & Jerry’s, is an American company that manufactures ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sorbet. It was founded in 1978 by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield in Burlington, Vermont. The company started as a single ice cream parlor and grew into a multi-national brand. In 2000, it was sold to the multinational conglomerate Unilever but continues to operate as an independent subsidiary. Ben and Jerry’s headquarters is located in South Burlington, Vermont, with a factory in Waterbury, Vermont. The brand is known for its unique and creative flavors, as well as its commitment to social activism and advocacy.

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The Founding of Ben and Jerry’s

Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, childhood friends from New York, embarked on a delicious journey when they established Ben & Jerry’s in 1978. Initially contemplating a bagel shop, the duo eventually decided on an ice cream parlor. Armed with a small investment and a course in ice cream making, they transformed a renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont into their first store.

From the very beginning, Ben & Jerry’s captivated ice cream enthusiasts with their intensely flavored, chunky ice cream creations. What set them apart from other brands was their unwavering commitment to using high-quality ingredients and their boundless creativity in crafting unique flavors.

“We wanted to make the best ice cream possible, and our secret ingredient was always passion.”

Their dedication to quality and innovation propelled the brand’s rapid ascent in the industry, fueling their dream of making irresistible ice cream and making a positive impact on the world.

“To make the best possible ice cream in the nicest possible way” – this motto has guided us ever since.”

Expansion and Success

After the success of their first store, Ben & Jerry’s embarked on a journey of expansion. They recognized the growing popularity of their ice cream and sought to share their unique flavors with a wider audience. In 1981, they began packing their delectable treats in pints, making it easier for customers to bring home their favorite flavors. This packaging innovation became a game-changer, as it allowed people to enjoy Ben & Jerry’s ice cream wherever and whenever they desired.

In addition to introducing pints, Ben & Jerry’s also opened their first franchise in 1981. This marked the beginning of their nationwide presence, further solidifying their position as a beloved ice cream brand. The franchise model allowed Ben & Jerry’s to expand rapidly, reaching more communities across the United States. Their commitment to high-quality ingredients and their dedication to social causes continued to resonate with customers, fueling their growth.

By 1987, Ben & Jerry’s achieved remarkable success, with sales skyrocketing to an impressive $30 million. Their unique flavors, packed with chunks and swirls, captured the hearts and taste buds of ice cream enthusiasts nationwide. The company’s origins as a cozy ice cream parlor in Burlington, Vermont, had evolved into a thriving business, gaining recognition as a trailblazer in the frozen desserts industry.

“We always believed that you could make a company that cared about more than just making money. We wanted to demonstrate that a corporation could have a social mission and be successful at the same time.” – Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield

Throughout their expansion, Ben & Jerry’s never lost sight of their mission and values. They remained committed to producing ice cream that delighted customers while actively advocating for social causes. Their commitment to giving back to the community and fighting for social justice became intrinsic to the brand’s identity.

As Ben & Jerry’s continued to expand, their impact went beyond the realm of simply selling ice cream. They became a force for change, using their brand as a platform for raising awareness and driving social activism. Through initiatives like supporting fair trade, promoting environmental sustainability, and advocating for marriage equality, Ben & Jerry’s demonstrated that businesses have the power to make a positive difference in the world.

Stay tuned for the next section, where we delve into the acquisition of Ben & Jerry’s by Unilever and how the brand’s social mission continued to thrive under new ownership.

Acquisition by Unilever

In 2000, Ben & Jerry’s made a significant decision to sell the company to Unilever, a multinational food giant. This move raised concerns among many people who feared that the brand’s social missions would be compromised under new ownership. However, Unilever recognized the inherent value of the Ben & Jerry’s brand and made a commitment to maintain the company’s social mission and independent governance structure.

Despite the change in ownership, the founders Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield remained involved in the company, ensuring that their vision and values would continue to guide its direction. While operational responsibility shifted to a new CEO, the commitment to delivering delicious and socially conscious ice cream remained at the heart of Ben & Jerry’s mission.

This acquisition enabled Ben & Jerry’s to access additional resources and expand its global reach while staying true to its core principles. Unilever understood the importance of preserving the brand’s unique identity and has actively supported the continuation of Ben & Jerry’s social activism and commitment to sustainability.

The Value of Ben & Jerry’s Brand

“We understood that Ben & Jerry’s had built a strong and highly regarded brand that was deeply connected to its consumers. Our goal was to allow the brand to prosper while preserving its authentic spirit, social mission, and progressive values.” – Unilever Spokesperson

Unilever’s recognition of the value in preserving Ben & Jerry’s brand has proven beneficial for both parties. While Ben & Jerry’s has continued to operate independently, it has also been able to leverage Unilever’s resources and global presence to expand its impact and reach a wider audience.

Preserving the Social Mission

Unilever’s commitment to maintaining Ben & Jerry’s social mission has been unwavering. The company established an independent board of directors to oversee the brand’s social initiatives and ensure that its values are upheld. This board actively participates in decision-making processes and plays a pivotal role in upholding the integrity of the Ben & Jerry’s brand.

Furthermore, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield have remained influential advocates within the company, ensuring that their original vision and social agenda continue to shape its activities. Through this collaborative effort, Ben & Jerry’s has been able to balance its mission-oriented approach with the business goals set forth by its parent company.

The Continued Impact of Ben & Jerry’s

Although Ben & Jerry’s is now owned by Unilever, its commitment to social activism and sustainability remains strong. The brand continues to use its platform to raise awareness about social and environmental issues, promoting positive change through its campaigns and partnerships.

By staying true to its founding principles and delivering delicious ice cream that aligns with its values, Ben & Jerry’s has maintained a loyal customer base and inspired other companies in the food industry to prioritize social responsibility.

The acquisition by Unilever has allowed Ben & Jerry’s to expand its reach while staying true to its roots, creating a powerful impact on both a local and global scale. With its delicious flavors and unwavering commitment to social justice, Ben & Jerry’s remains a beloved brand that stands as a shining example of how a socially responsible business can thrive.

Unilever’s Support for Ben and Jerry’s Social Missions

Despite being owned by Unilever, Ben & Jerry’s has remained committed to its social missions and values. Recognizing the significance of the Ben & Jerry’s brand, Unilever established an independent board of directors to oversee the company’s social mission and policies. This board ensures the integrity of the Ben & Jerry’s brand and actively participates in decision-making processes.

The independent board is responsible for setting wages in the factories and supporting various social causes. Their involvement ensures that Ben & Jerry’s continues to prioritize its social initiatives and remains true to its founding principles.

Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, the founders of Ben & Jerry’s, are still actively involved in the company, although day-to-day operations are managed by the CEO and the management team. Their continued presence and contribution ensure that the company stays aligned with its original vision and values.

The support from Unilever has allowed Ben & Jerry’s to expand its social impact and reach a broader audience. Together, they have remained dedicated to making a positive difference in the world, while also delivering delicious ice cream to consumers.

Through their joint efforts, Ben & Jerry’s and Unilever have supported numerous social causes and initiatives, establishing the brand as a champion of social justice and environmental sustainability.

“We are thrilled to have Unilever as a partner in our mission to make the world a better place. Their support has been instrumental in furthering our commitment to social and environmental responsibility.” – Ben Cohen, Co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s

By preserving the company’s social missions and working collaboratively with an industry giant like Unilever, Ben & Jerry’s has been able to amplify its positive impact and inspire change on a larger scale.

Ben and Jerry’s Commitment to Social Activism

Ben & Jerry’s has always been at the forefront of social activism and advocacy. From its inception, the company has placed a strong emphasis on supporting social and environmental causes, making it more than just an ice cream brand.

Ben & Jerry’s commitment to social activism runs deep, and they actively engage with consumers to create a positive impact. Their dedication to making a difference has resonated with many, making their ice cream more than just a tasty treat.

“We’re just trying to create a better world, one scoop at a time.” – Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield

Ben & Jerry’s founders, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, have embedded their social consciousness into the DNA of the company. Despite the change in ownership, their commitment to social causes remains unwavering, ensuring that the ice cream brand continues to make a positive difference in the world.

Ben & Jerry’s Social Activism Highlights Impact
Support for marriage equality Fostering inclusivity and equal rights
Advocacy for climate change action Raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices
Partnerships with social justice organizations Creating positive change through collaborations
Using ice cream as a vehicle for storytelling Engaging consumers in conversations on important social issues

Continued Success and Impact

Despite being owned by a multinational corporation, Ben & Jerry’s has remained true to its founding principles and continues to be a leader in socially responsible business practices. The company’s commitment to high-quality, unique flavors and its dedication to social causes have contributed to its ongoing success and impact in the ice cream industry.

Since its inception, Ben & Jerry’s has expanded internationally and established a strong presence in the market. The brand’s innovative and creative approach to ice cream has captured the hearts of consumers worldwide. With flavors like Cherry Garcia, Phish Food, and Half Baked, Ben & Jerry’s has become synonymous with indulgence, quality, and flavor experimentation.

However, what truly sets Ben & Jerry’s apart is its unwavering dedication to social activism. The company has consistently championed important social causes, using its platform as an ice cream brand to raise awareness and inspire change. Ben & Jerry’s has been vocal about issues such as climate change, racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and fair trade.

“We’re just a company, but we try to use our voice to advocate for systemic change,” says co-founder Ben Cohen.

Ben & Jerry’s has actively engaged in campaigns and initiatives that align with their values, striving to make a positive impact on society. The company supports various nonprofit organizations, collaborates with grassroots movements, and uses its resources to create meaningful change.

The Impact of Social Responsibility

Ben & Jerry’s commitment to social consciousness has resonated deeply with consumers. They have cultivated a loyal customer base that appreciates the brand’s consistent advocacy for important issues. By aligning their business with social responsibility, Ben & Jerry’s has tapped into a growing consumer demand for socially conscious products. This approach has not only allowed the company to thrive but has also inspired other businesses to explore the intersection of profit and purpose.

In addition to their social impact, Ben & Jerry’s continued success can be attributed to their dedication to producing high-quality ice cream. The brand’s commitment to using the finest ingredients, including hormone-free milk and fair trade chocolate, has solidified their reputation for excellence. With their signature chunks and swirls, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream offers a uniquely indulgent and satisfying experience.

Furthermore, Ben & Jerry’s commitment to maintaining their independence within the larger corporate structure has been crucial in preserving their core identity and mission. Despite being owned by Unilever, the brand has retained a high degree of autonomy and decision-making power. This has allowed them to maintain their focus on social activism and the values that have defined them since their humble beginnings.

Jerry Greenfield emphasizes, “It’s important that we have the ability to make decisions that aren’t just motivated by the bottom line but are motivated by other values.”

Through their continued success and impact, Ben & Jerry’s has demonstrated that a business can prioritize both profit and social responsibility. Their story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and established companies alike, proving that it is possible to make a meaningful difference while running a successful enterprise.

Ben and Jerry’s as a Socially Responsible Brand

Ben & Jerry’s is widely recognized as a socially responsible brand. The company is committed to using sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients, supporting local communities, and advocating for social justice issues.

“We believe that businesses have a responsibility to actively address social and environmental challenges,” says Ben Cohen, Co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s.

From the beginning, Ben & Jerry’s has been involved in various campaigns and initiatives to promote environmental sustainability, equality, and human rights. The company’s commitment to social causes goes beyond just words. Here are some examples of Ben & Jerry’s social responsibility efforts:

Sustainable Sourcing

Ben & Jerry’s prioritizes using ingredients that are sustainably sourced. They work directly with family farmers and ensure fair prices for their products.

Social Advocacy

Ben & Jerry’s is known for using their platform to advocate for social justice issues. They actively support campaigns related to racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, climate change, and democracy.

Community Engagement

The company is deeply committed to supporting local communities. They contribute a portion of their profits to community organizations and regularly host events to raise awareness and support local causes.

Employee Welfare

Ben & Jerry’s believes in fair treatment and wages for their employees. They provide competitive benefits, such as healthcare coverage, paid leave, and retirement plans.

Ben & Jerry’s Social Responsibility Initiatives Description
Sustainability Using sustainably sourced ingredients and reducing environmental impact through eco-friendly packaging.
Advocacy Supporting campaigns and initiatives related to social justice and equality.
Community Engagement Contributing to local communities through partnerships and donations.
Employee Welfare Providing fair wages, benefits, and a positive working environment for employees.

Through their social responsibility initiatives, Ben & Jerry’s continues to inspire and set an example for other companies looking to make a positive impact. By balancing profit with purpose, they have created a brand that not only produces delicious ice cream but also supports causes that benefit society as a whole.

The Future of Ben and Jerry’s

Ben & Jerry’s, the renowned American ice cream company, is set to embark on an exciting new chapter under the leadership of its newly appointed CEO, Dave Stever. With a strong commitment to its social missions and a reputation for producing high-quality ice cream, Ben & Jerry’s is poised to continue making a significant impact in the ice cream industry.

Founded by childhood friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield in 1978, Ben & Jerry’s has always strived to create a brand that goes beyond just great flavors. A true pioneer in socially responsible business practices, the company has remained true to its origins while continuously pushing boundaries. By combining innovative flavors with a commitment to activism and advocacy, Ben & Jerry’s has cultivated a loyal following of customers who appreciate its unique approach.

Looking ahead, Ben & Jerry’s is well-positioned to thrive in an increasingly conscious consumer market. The brand’s dedication to sourcing ethically and using high-quality ingredients resonates with customers who prioritize transparency and sustainability. With a strong foundation and a proven track record, Ben & Jerry’s is ready to continue delighting taste buds, supporting social causes, and remaining a beloved and socially conscious brand for generations to come.

FAQ

Who owns Ben and Jerry’s and what is the company’s history?

Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Holdings Inc., commonly known as Ben & Jerry’s, is currently owned by the multinational conglomerate Unilever. The company was founded in 1978 by childhood friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield in Burlington, Vermont. Starting as a single ice cream parlor, it grew into a multi-national brand known for its unique flavors and commitment to social activism.

How did Ben and Jerry’s get started?

Ben and Jerry’s was founded by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, childhood friends from New York. They decided to open an ice cream parlor instead of a bagel shop and, with a small investment and ice cream making course, opened their first store in a renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont.

How did Ben and Jerry’s expand and achieve success?

After their first store’s success, Ben and Jerry’s started packing their ice cream in pints and opened the first franchise in 1981. The company experienced rapid growth, with sales reaching $30 million by 1987. Ben and Jerry’s ice cream gained popularity across the United States for its unique flavors and commitment to social causes.

Who acquired Ben and Jerry’s?

In 2000, Ben and Jerry’s sold the company to Unilever, a multinational food giant. Initially, there were concerns that the company’s social missions would be compromised, but Unilever agreed to maintain the company’s independent governance structure and commitment to social mission.

How has Unilever supported Ben and Jerry’s social missions?

Unilever recognized the value of the Ben and Jerry’s brand and established an independent board of directors to oversee the company’s social mission and policies. The board ensures the integrity of the brand and actively participates in decision-making, including setting wages in the factories and supporting social causes.

How is Ben and Jerry’s involved in social activism?

Ben and Jerry’s has a long history of social activism and advocacy. The company prioritizes social and environmental causes and incorporates them into its business practices. Ben and Jerry’s has been involved in campaigns for social justice issues like climate change and LGBTQ+ rights, using its ice cream as a platform to raise awareness and engage with consumers.

What sets Ben and Jerry’s apart as a socially responsible brand?

Ben and Jerry’s is widely recognized as a socially responsible brand. The company is committed to using sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients, supporting local communities, and advocating for social justice issues. They serve as a model for other companies looking to balance profit with purpose.

What is the future of Ben and Jerry’s?

As of May 2023, Ben and Jerry’s announced a new CEO, Dave Stever, who will lead the company into the future. With its dedicated customer base and innovative flavors, Ben and Jerry’s is expected to continue its impact and growth in the ice cream industry while remaining committed to its social missions and high-quality ice cream.