Overview

• Ben & Jerry's claims Unilever unlawfully removed CEO David Stever on March 3, 2025, citing his commitment to the brand's social activism rather than performance issues.
• The lawsuit alleges Unilever violated the 2000 merger agreement, which requires consultation with Ben & Jerry's independent board before removing its CEO.
• Unilever has been accused of blocking Ben & Jerry's from making public statements on issues like Donald Trump, Black History Month, and Palestinian activism.
• The legal dispute is part of a broader conflict over Ben & Jerry's social mission, which has clashed with Unilever's operational priorities since 2021.
• Unilever plans to spin off its ice cream division, including Ben & Jerry's, by the end of 2025, adding further uncertainty to the brand's future.