Ben & Jerry’s

Ben & Jerry’s Homemade, Inc. is a well-known ice cream company celebrated for its inventive flavors and dedication to social and environmental causes. The company was established in 1978 by childhood friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield in Burlington, Vermont. They started with a single scoop shop in a converted gas station, aiming to deliver premium ice cream in a lively, community-focused setting. Cohen’s unique perspective on flavor, influenced by his anosmia, led to the creation of ice creams featuring large chunks and bold flavors, which quickly distinguished the brand.

In the decades that followed, Ben & Jerry’s expanded beyond local scoop shops to offer pints in grocery stores, introducing beloved flavors such as Cherry Garcia and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. The company extended its reach internationally, establishing a strong presence in North America and Europe. By the late 1990s, Ben & Jerry’s had gained a reputation for its progressive business practices, including early adoption of same-sex partner benefits and environmental initiatives.

In 2000, Ben & Jerry’s was acquired by Unilever, yet it continued to operate with an independent board to maintain its social mission. As of November 2025, the company boasts over 615 scoop shops worldwide, with locations across the United States, Europe, Asia, and other regions. Its retail footprint is further amplified by its distribution in supermarkets and convenience stores, securing its place in the premium ice cream market.

Recent years have seen Ben & Jerry’s innovate with non-dairy and plant-based products while maintaining its role as a leader in social and environmental advocacy. The company publishes annual Social & Environmental Assessment Reports to highlight its efforts. In 2024-2025, Unilever announced the spin-off of its ice cream division, including Ben & Jerry’s, into a new standalone entity known as The Magnum Ice Cream Company, a move anticipated to boost international growth.

For commercial real estate professionals, Ben & Jerry’s is notable for its extensive scale, strong brand recognition, and adaptable store formats, which include traditional scoop shops, kiosks, and co-branded locations. The company’s commitment to expanding in high-traffic, community-oriented sites makes it a reliable and appealing tenant for diverse retail settings.