Ben and Jerry's Current Ownership and Parent Company
Ben & Jerry's is owned by Unilever, a multinational consumer goods company headquartered in London and Rotterdam. The acquisition was completed in 2000, and the brand operates as part of Unilever's Ice Cream division, which is responsible for several global frozen dessert portfolios. The brand continues to sell its products in the United States and international markets under the Unilever umbrella. Learn more about Unilever's Ice Cream division.
The founders, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, no longer hold ownership stakes in the company following the sale to Unilever. Cohen and Greenfield remain associated with the brand's legacy and have pursued separate ventures in social activism and business. The current operational leadership reports through Unilever's corporate structure, with decisions on branding, supply chain, and distribution managed at the divisional level.
Acquisition Details and Financial Context
2000 Acquisition Terms
Unilever acquired Ben & Jerry's in 2000 for approximately $326 million in cash, a deal that was finalized after the brand had grown into a leading premium ice cream manufacturer in the United States. The acquisition price reflected the brand's strong retail presence and cult following at the time. The transaction was structured as a straightforward purchase, with Unilever absorbing the company's operations and brand portfolio.
Following the acquisition, Ben & Jerry's maintained its Vermont-based production facilities and continued to operate its scoop shops under a licensing model managed by Unilever. The brand's revenue is now reported as part of Unilever's consolidated financial statements, with specific breakdowns disclosed in the company's annual reports and investor presentations. Unilever's total revenue for recent fiscal years has exceeded 60 billion euros, with ice cream representing a notable but smaller segment of the overall portfolio.
Brand Operations and Corporate Structure
Global Distribution and Product Lines
Ben & Jerry's products are distributed in more than 35 countries, with the strongest market presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The brand offers a range of flavors, including dairy-based ice cream, non-dairy options, and limited-edition seasonal releases. Production is centralized at facilities in Vermont and other locations, with distribution managed through Unilever's global supply chain network.
Sustainability and Social Initiatives
Under Unilever's ownership, Ben & Jerry's continues to promote social and environmental initiatives, including fair trade sourcing, climate action goals, and campaigns related to racial justice and LGBTQ+ rights. These efforts are integrated into Unilever's broader Sustainable Living Plan, which sets targets for reducing environmental impact and improving supply chain transparency. The brand's social mission statements remain a core part of its marketing and public identity.