Ben & Jerry's is suing parent company Unilever over the alleged unlawful termination of CEO David Stever, claiming the firing violated their 2000 merger agreement that protects the ice cream maker's independence and social mission.

The lawsuit, filed in New York, states Unilever failed to consult Ben & Jerry's independent board before firing Stever, a requirement under their merger agreement. The ice cream maker claims Stever was terminated due to his commitment to the company's outspoken social and political stances, particularly regarding Palestinian refugees.

This conflict follows a 2022 dispute when Unilever blocked Ben & Jerry's attempt to stop selling products in the occupied West Bank. The company alleges Unilever has "muzzled" their political expression and threatened employees who tried to speak out.

Stever, a 35-year company veteran who started as a tour guide in 1988, was Ben & Jerry's first internal CEO promotion. His termination allegedly stems from his unwillingness to compromise on the company's progressive values, rather than performance issues.

Ben & Jerry's has historically taken strong positions on social issues, including Black Lives Matter, LGBTQ+ rights, climate action, and migrant justice. This approach has created ongoing tension with Unilever, which typically maintains a more neutral corporate stance.

Unilever has not yet responded to requests for comment about the lawsuit or the allegations regarding Stever's termination.

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