Ben & Jerry's

Ben & Jerry's still runs real worker and sourcing programs that most brands its size don't: union contracts at both Vermont factories, Fairtrade-certified core ingredients, and an independently monitored dairy labor standard. But the structural protection that made its activism durable is gone. Magnum removed the brand's independent social-mission board at the turn of 2026 and appointed three directors of its own in August, both founders are out of any position of authority, and the Ben & Jerry's Foundation says it will suspend operations at the end of 2026 after the parent cut off its funding. A federal judge dismissed most of the ousted directors' case on August 21, 2026, though their claim that the brand was censored is still standing. The company answers to Magnum Ice Cream shareholders, with Unilever still holding a stake just under 20 percent.