Ben & Jerry’s claims Unilever unlawfully fired its CEO over political issues

Ben & Jerry’s, the iconic ice cream brand known for its social activism and progressive values, is embroiled in a legal battle with its parent company Unilever. The company alleges that Unilever unlawfully fired its CEO David Stever over disagreements related to the brand’s social mission and stance on political issues.

In an amended complaint filed in the Southern District of New York, Ben & Jerry’s claims that Unilever’s dismissal of Stever violated a merger agreement that prohibits the unilateral removal of the CEO. The agreement specifies that the CEO can only be removed after consultation with an advisory committee of the company board, which was established to uphold the brand’s social mission and identity.

The ongoing clashes between Ben & Jerry’s independent board and Unilever have been well-documented. In 2022, Ben & Jerry’s sued Unilever for preventing the company from halting sales in the occupied West Bank. The brand has a long history of taking public stances on issues such as migrant justice, LGBTQ+ rights, Black Lives Matter, and GMO labeling, among others. Unilever’s actions have been perceived as hindering Ben & Jerry’s ability to fulfill its social mission.

David Stever, the ousted CEO, had been with the company for 34 years, starting as a tour guide in 1988 before working his way up to chief marketing officer and eventually CEO. His removal from the top post by Unilever in March 2024 was met with outrage from Ben & Jerry’s, who alleged that his commitment to the brand’s social mission and integrity was the real reason behind his dismissal.

The initial lawsuit filed by Ben & Jerry’s in November 2024 accused Unilever of censoring the company’s ability to speak out on issues it deemed important, such as support for Palestinian refugees. Unilever’s alleged threats to Ben & Jerry’s personnel further exacerbated tensions between the two entities.

Neither Unilever nor Ben & Jerry’s have responded to requests for comment on the matter. The legal battle between the two companies highlights the challenges that can arise when corporate interests clash with a brand’s social mission and values. As the case unfolds, the future of Ben & Jerry’s leadership and its commitment to social activism remains uncertain.