Ben & Jerry’s co-founder Jerry Greenfield quits over Unilever social activism dispute2 SHARESPosted: 17 September 2025 | Ben Cornwell |Jerry Greenfield leaves Ben & Jerry’s after nearly 50 years, claiming Unilever has “silenced” the brand’s social activism and independence. Credit: Walter Cicchetti / Shutterstock.comBen & Jerry’s co-founder Jerry Greenfield has departed the iconic ice cream maker after almost half a century, citing a loss of independence under parent company Unilever. The move, announced in a letter shared on social media by fellow co-founder Ben Cohen, deepens an ongoing dispute over the brand’s activism. In response, Unilever emphasised that Ben & Jerry’s remains a “proud part” of the Magnum Ice Cream Company and confirmed it is not for sale. Ben & Jerry’s has a long-standing reputation for taking public stances on social issues, from LGBTQ+ rights to climate change.