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Ben & Jerry's Enhances Governance of Board

BURLINGTON, Vt., Dec. 15, 2025 – Ben & Jerry's Homemade Inc. has revealed significant updates aimed at reinforcing its corporate governance, ensuring its enduring commitment to social responsibility as the company embraces its next chapter.

The Board of Ben & Jerry's is implementing a series of strategic modifications to their governance framework. These steps serve not only to align with the corporate governance standards set by its parent company, The Magnum Ice Cream Company (TMICC), but also to preserve the brand's long-standing dedication to social change. Since 2000, the Board has collaborated closely with the company, advocating for progressive movements that aim to foster a more equitable world.

Key Governance Changes

1. Establishing a Nine-Year Term Limit
In line with TMICC's governance model and best practices, a term limit of nine years for Board members has been instituted. This ensures a rotation of leadership that encourages fresh perspectives and ideas.

2. Code of Business Integrity Compliance
Board members are required to reaffirm their commitment to adhere to the TMICC's Code of Business Integrity, emphasizing ethical conduct and accountability.

3. Structured Board Meeting Cadence
The frequency and protocols for Board meetings have been set to align with the terms of the Merger Agreement, ensuring respect and fair treatment amongst all stakeholders involved.

Ben & Jerry's remains steadfast in its commitment to its unique three-part mission—product, economic, and social—continuing its advocacy for a broad array of progressive causes. CEO Jochanan Senf states, "The merger agreement and the role of the board are unique in the business world, vital for the long-term future of our mission. We are enhancing governance, promoting transparency, and increasing accountability, which are fundamental for our impactful journey going forward."

Changes to Board Membership

Due to the new governance measures, any director who has served on the Board for more than nine years will lose their eligibility for re-election in 2026. As a result, three directors have already been informed of their ineligibility for service on the Board moving forward. Current members are being asked to recommit to the Code of Business Integrity, in accordance with the Merger Agreement.

Updates on the Ben & Jerry's Foundation

The Ben & Jerry's Foundation, a separate charitable entity funded by Unilever before its demerger, recently underwent an audit as part of its governance responsibilities. Conducted by an independent auditor approved by the Foundation Trustees, the audit revealed material deficiencies in financial controls, governance structures, and compliance policies.

Reacting to these findings, the Ben & Jerry's management team has extended an invitation to the Foundation Trustees to collaborate on implementing a governance framework based on transparency and accountability. Proposed improvements include establishing a Code of Ethics, conflicts of interest policy, and financial controls with trustee term limits to ensure standardization in practices at charitable organizations.

Notably, since its inception, the Ben & Jerry's Foundation has contributed over $70 million to grassroots initiatives, and the Foundation was fully funded in 2025. Although the Foundation Trustees have yet to accept funding unless governance changes are implemented, Ben & Jerry's remains committed to evaluating alternative options for supporting charitable causes.

Looking to the Future

Ben & Jerry's is unwavering in its belief that it represents a greater mission than simply producing delicious ice cream. The company emphasizes a vision of Linked Prosperity, integrating high-quality sourcing and values-led practices into its business approach. As a Certified B Corp, Ben & Jerry's utilizes its influence to promote social, racial, and environmental justice globally, driven by a dedicated workforce. In 2024, the Foundation allocated $4.5 million to justice-focused grassroots organizations across the U.S.

In an ever-evolving corporate landscape, these governance reforms signify Ben & Jerry's commitment to not only uphold but also accelerate its social mission, thereby ensuring a positive impact for years to come.