"Ben & Jerry's Founder Expresses Concern Over Magnum's Board Changes, Calls It 'Orwellian'"

Cohen's Criticism of Magnum: Ben & Jerry's co-founder Ben Cohen has criticized parent company Magnum Ice Cream for allegedly undermining the brand's social mission and governance, calling their actions "Orwellian" and a "desperate power grab."

Board Changes and Conflict: Recent changes to Ben & Jerry's board governance have led to the ousting of three directors, intensifying the conflict between the brand and its parent company over the preservation of its social mission.

Cohen's Campaign for Independence: Cohen and co-founder Jerry Greenfield have launched the #FreeBenAndJerrys campaign, advocating for the brand to be sold to investors who align with its social mission, as they believe current management is devaluing the brand.

Financial Performance and Future Outlook: Despite the ongoing conflict, Unilever reported that Ben & Jerry's has seen mid-single-digit growth, but Cohen argues that the brand's true value lies in its commitment to social responsibility rather than profit maximization.