Ben & Jerry’s, the socially‑focused ice‑cream brand, is locked in a governance battle with its owner, the newly listed Magnum Ice Cream Company. The dispute began after Magnum altered Ben & Jerry’s bylaws, imposing a nine‑year term limit that forced three independent directors, including chair Anuradha Mittal, off the board. Former founders argue the changes betray the brand’s mission‑protected charter.

Ben Cohen, co‑founder, is campaigning for a sale to investors who will safeguard the social agenda, claiming Magnum’s stewardship is eroding brand value. He cites a 2021 halt of sales in the occupied West Bank, which triggered an Israeli government warning to Unilever, and a 2024 lawsuit accusing the parent of blocking a Gaza statement. Cohen says the board’s dilution constitutes fiduciary negligence.

Magnum defends the amendments, saying they fall within its rights and that the board will remain independent after appointing a new chair. Despite the feud, Magnum’s share price has risen 13.7% since its December Amsterdam debut, outpacing the Stoxx Europe 600. The Southern District of New York court will now decide whether the board purge breaches the original charter.