Overview

• Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, founders of Ben & Jerry's, are reportedly in early discussions to buy back their brand from Unilever, which they sold in 2000 for $326 million.
• The founders are considering partnering with socially conscious investors to fund the potential multibillion-dollar acquisition, though no deal has been finalized or confirmed.
• Unilever plans to spin off its entire ice cream division, including Ben & Jerry's, as part of a cost-cutting initiative, with public listings planned in Amsterdam, London, and New York by the end of 2025.
• The relationship between Ben & Jerry's and Unilever has been strained over the years, particularly regarding the brand's independent board and its commitment to progressive social justice causes.
• Unilever has stated that the ice cream business is not for sale and remains an integral part of its restructuring strategy, which includes global job cuts and performance improvements.