Ben and Jerry, the founders of the iconic Ben & Jerry’s ice cream brand, have been household names for decades. Their unique approach to business, combining high-quality ice cream with a commitment to social and environmental causes, has made them legends in the world of entrepreneurship. But what do Ben and Jerry do now? Have they continued to be involved in the ice cream industry, or have they pursued other passions and interests?
Early Life and Career
To understand what Ben and Jerry do now, it’s essential to look at their early life and career. Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, the founders of Ben & Jerry’s, grew up in Merrick, Long Island, New York. They met in 7th grade gym class and quickly became friends. After high school, they went their separate ways, but eventually reunited in 1977 to take a $5 ice cream-making course together. This sparked the idea to start their own ice cream business.
Starting Ben & Jerry’s
In 1978, Ben and Jerry opened their first ice cream shop in a renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont. Their unique flavors, such as Chunky Monkey and Phish Food, quickly gained popularity, and the company started to grow. In the early days, Ben and Jerry were heavily involved in all aspects of the business, from making ice cream to managing the finances.
Unconventional Business Practices
Ben and Jerry’s approach to business was unconventional from the start. They prioritized social and environmental causes, using their company as a platform to raise awareness and support for various issues. This included donating 7.5% of their annual pre-tax profits to charitable causes and implementing environmentally friendly production methods. These practices not only contributed to the company’s unique culture but also helped to establish a loyal customer base.
Post-Ben & Jerry’s Era
In 2000, Ben & Jerry’s was acquired by Unilever, a multinational consumer goods company. As part of the deal, Ben and Jerry remained involved with the company but were no longer responsible for the day-to-day operations. This marked a significant change in their lives, as they were able to focus on other projects and interests.
Ben’s Post-Ben & Jerry’s Pursuits
Ben Cohen has remained committed to social and environmental causes and has been involved in various projects over the years. One of his notable endeavors is the Business for Social Responsibility organization, which aims to promote sustainable business practices. Ben has also been involved in various political campaigns, using his platform to raise awareness about issues such as climate change and social justice.
Ben’s Love of Baking
In addition to his social and environmental work, Ben has also developed a passion for baking. He has even released a line of frozen yogurts under the brand name “The Ben & Jerry’s of Frozen Yogurt.” Ben’s baking endeavors have allowed him to combine his love of food with his commitment to social and environmental causes.
Jerry’s Post-Ben & Jerry’s Pursuits
Jerry Greenfield has also remained committed to social and environmental causes and has been involved in various projects over the years. One of his notable endeavors is the Just Desserts organization, which aims to promote social and environmental justice through the production and sale of desserts. Jerry has also been involved in various community development projects, using his platform to support local initiatives and promote sustainable development.
Jerry’s Love of Music
In addition to his social and environmental work, Jerry has also developed a passion for music. He has even performed with various bands over the years, combining his love of music with his commitment to social and environmental causes.
Current Projects and Initiatives
Today, Ben and Jerry are still involved in various projects and initiatives, both together and separately. One of their current endeavors is the Aloha Foundation, which aims to promote social and environmental justice through education and community development. They have also launched a line of CBD-infused ice creams, which are made with high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients.
Collaborations and Partnerships
Ben and Jerry have also collaborated with various organizations and individuals on various projects and initiatives. One notable example is their partnership with the non-profit organization, 1% for the Planet. This partnership aims to promote sustainable business practices and support environmental causes. They have also collaborated with various artists and musicians on projects that combine music, art, and social justice.
Ben & Jerry’s Foundation
The Ben & Jerry’s Foundation, which was established in 1985, continues to support social and environmental causes. The foundation provides grants to non-profit organizations that are working to promote social and environmental justice. Ben and Jerry are still involved with the foundation, using their platform to raise awareness and support for various causes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ben and Jerry are still very much involved in the world of social and environmental justice. While they may not be as directly involved in the day-to-day operations of Ben & Jerry’s, they continue to use their platform to promote sustainable business practices and support various causes. Through their various projects and initiatives, Ben and Jerry remain committed to making a positive impact on the world. As they continue to pursue their passions and interests, it’s clear that their legacy will endure for generations to come.
| Project/Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Aloha Foundation | Aims to promote social and environmental justice through education and community development |
| Ben & Jerry’s Foundation | Provides grants to non-profit organizations that are working to promote social and environmental justice |
| 1% for the Planet | Aims to promote sustainable business practices and support environmental causes |
As we look to the future, it’s clear that Ben and Jerry will continue to be leaders in the world of social and environmental justice. Their commitment to promoting sustainable business practices and supporting various causes is an inspiration to us all. By following in their footsteps, we can make a positive impact on the world and create a more just and sustainable future for all.
What have Ben and Jerry been up to since selling their company?
Ben and Jerry, the founders of the popular ice cream brand, have been quite busy since selling their company to Unilever in 2000. They have both been involved in various social and environmental causes, using their fame and wealth to make a positive impact on the world. Ben Cohen has been particularly active in the area of social justice, advocating for issues such as racial equality and campaign finance reform. He has also been involved in various business ventures, including the launch of a line of socially responsible cleaning products.
In addition to their individual pursuits, Ben and Jerry have also continued to be involved in the ice cream industry, albeit in a more limited capacity. They have both served on the board of directors of the company they founded, ensuring that their values and mission continue to be reflected in the brand’s operations. Jerry Greenfield has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including the launch of a foundation that supports social and environmental causes. Through their post-ice cream careers, Ben and Jerry have demonstrated their commitment to using their success to make a positive difference in the world.
How have Ben and Jerry used their platform to advocate for social justice?
Ben and Jerry have long been known for their commitment to social justice, and they have used their platform to advocate for a wide range of causes over the years. They have been vocal supporters of issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and environmental protection, often using their ice cream flavors and marketing campaigns to raise awareness and funds for these causes. For example, in 2019, the company launched a flavor called “Justice Remix’d,” with a portion of the proceeds going to support the National Bail Out collective, an organization that works to end mass incarceration and support Black communities.
In addition to their advocacy work through the ice cream company, Ben and Jerry have also used their personal platforms to speak out on social justice issues. They have written op-eds, given speeches, and participated in protests and rallies, using their fame and influence to bring attention to important causes. Ben Cohen has also been involved in various social justice organizations, including the Movement for Black Lives and the Campaign for Democracy. Through their advocacy work, Ben and Jerry have demonstrated their commitment to using their success to drive positive change and promote social justice.
What philanthropic efforts have Ben and Jerry been involved in?
Ben and Jerry have been involved in a wide range of philanthropic efforts over the years, using their wealth and fame to support social and environmental causes. The Ben & Jerry’s Foundation, which was established in 1985, has provided funding to numerous non-profit organizations working on issues such as environmental protection, social justice, and community development. The foundation has also supported various initiatives, including the launch of a program to support refugee resettlement and a campaign to promote sustainable agriculture.
In addition to their work through the foundation, Ben and Jerry have also been involved in various other philanthropic efforts. They have donated to numerous charities and non-profit organizations, and have used their ice cream company to raise funds and awareness for important causes. For example, in 2015, the company launched a flavor called “Save Our Swirled,” with a portion of the proceeds going to support climate change activism. Through their philanthropic efforts, Ben and Jerry have demonstrated their commitment to using their success to make a positive impact on the world.
How have Ben and Jerry’s values been reflected in their post-ice cream careers?
Ben and Jerry’s values, including their commitment to social justice, environmental protection, and community development, have continued to be reflected in their post-ice cream careers. They have both been involved in various ventures and initiatives that align with these values, from Ben’s work on campaign finance reform to Jerry’s involvement in sustainable agriculture. They have also continued to use their fame and influence to promote these values, often speaking out on important issues and using their platforms to raise awareness and drive positive change.
The values that Ben and Jerry have promoted through their careers have also been reflected in their personal lives. They have both been known for their humility and lack of pretension, despite their wealth and fame. They have also been committed to living simply and sustainably, often using their personal resources to support environmental and social causes. For example, Ben Cohen has been involved in various environmental initiatives, including the launch of a program to promote sustainable energy in Vermont. Through their commitment to their values, Ben and Jerry have demonstrated their dedication to using their success to make a positive impact on the world.
What is Ben and Jerry’s current relationship like?
Ben and Jerry’s current relationship is one of close friendship and mutual respect. Although they are no longer involved in the day-to-day operations of the ice cream company they founded, they remain in close touch and continue to collaborate on various projects and initiatives. They have a deep affection for each other, and their friendship has endured despite the challenges and stresses of building and running a successful business. They have often spoken publicly about the importance of their friendship, and have credited it with playing a key role in their success.
In recent years, Ben and Jerry have continued to work together on various projects, including a book they co-authored in 2012 called “Winning at Cross-Purposes.” They have also made numerous public appearances together, often using their platform to promote social justice and environmental causes. Through their ongoing friendship and collaboration, Ben and Jerry have demonstrated the power of partnership and the importance of staying true to one’s values and principles. They remain two of the most beloved and respected figures in the world of social entrepreneurship, and their legacy continues to inspire and motivate people around the world.
How has Ben and Jerry’s legacy impacted the business world?
Ben and Jerry’s legacy has had a profound impact on the business world, inspiring a new generation of social entrepreneurs and demonstrating the power of using business as a force for good. Their commitment to social justice, environmental protection, and community development has shown that companies can be successful while also promoting positive change. They have also helped to popularize the concept of corporate social responsibility, encouraging other businesses to prioritize social and environmental causes alongside profit.
The impact of Ben and Jerry’s legacy can be seen in the many companies that have followed in their footsteps, prioritizing social and environmental responsibility alongside profit. The rise of the social entrepreneurship movement, which emphasizes the use of business to drive positive change, owes a debt to Ben and Jerry’s pioneering work. They have also inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in social entrepreneurship, using their skills and talents to make a positive impact on the world. Through their legacy, Ben and Jerry have helped to create a more just and sustainable business world, one that prioritizes people and the planet alongside profit.
What is Ben and Jerry’s advice to aspiring social entrepreneurs?
Ben and Jerry’s advice to aspiring social entrepreneurs is to stay true to their values and principles, and to use their businesses as a force for good. They have often spoken about the importance of prioritizing social and environmental responsibility alongside profit, and have encouraged others to do the same. They have also emphasized the need for perseverance and determination, noting that building a successful business that promotes positive change can be challenging and requires a long-term commitment.
In addition to their advice, Ben and Jerry have also provided support and resources to aspiring social entrepreneurs, including through the Ben & Jerry’s Foundation. The foundation has provided funding and mentorship to numerous social entrepreneurs and non-profit organizations, helping to launch and grow businesses that promote social and environmental justice. Through their advice and support, Ben and Jerry have helped to empower a new generation of social entrepreneurs, inspiring them to use business as a force for good and to create a more just and sustainable world.