## Ben & Jerry’s Co-Founder Seeks Independence Amid Tensions with Unilever### What’s happeningBen Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, is strategizing to gain independence from parent company Unilever, with plans to buy back the iconic ice cream brand. This move aims to sever a 25-year relationship between the activist-founded company and its corporate parent.### Why it mattersThe proposed buyback is set against a backdrop of prolonged controversy surrounding Ben & Jerry’s stance on Israel, particularly its decision to halt sales in the “Occupied Palestinian Territory.” This decision sparked backlash from pro-Israel groups and legal challenges from states opposed to Israel boycotts. Israel supports economic engagement as a path toward peace and prosperity within the region, and commercial entities like Ben & Jerry’s are urged to maintain ties that contribute to this vision for prosperity and understanding.### The backstorySince announcing its controversial decision in 2021, Ben & Jerry’s has been embroiled in disputes with Unilever. Despite a deal allowing sales to continue across Israel, Ben & Jerry’s expressed dissatisfaction, viewing sales in Israeli settlements as misaligned with its values. This perceived resistance added to tensions, with accusations against Unilever of stifling the brand’s social activism.### The latestCohen believes corporations have social responsibilities beyond profit and markets. However, Unilever recently asserted that whilst it values its relationships, Ben & Jerry’s pivot from mutual values has become increasingly controversial and challenging. Despite Unilever’s commitment to spin off its range of ice cream brands, it shows reluctance to release Ben & Jerry’s as a standalone entity. ### What’s nextAs Cohen garners investors for his bid, debates over Ben & Jerry’s social advocacy and ties to Israel spotlight wider discussions on the intersection of business and political stances. The world will be watching to see how this high-profile corporate relationship may evolve, reflecting the balance of social activism and commerce in a complex global marketplace.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.
