Ben & Jerry's

Definition

Ben & Jerry's is an American ice cream company known for its unique flavors, high-quality ingredients, and commitment to social and environmental issues. The brand stands out for its advocacy in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, particularly in global markets, where it emphasizes fair trade practices and sustainable sourcing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ben & Jerry's was founded in 1978 in Burlington, Vermont, by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, who started with a small ice cream shop.
2. The company uses Fairtrade-certified ingredients in many of its flavors, which supports farmers and promotes fair wages globally.
3. Ben & Jerry's has a long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability, including using non-GMO ingredients and advocating for climate change awareness.
4. The brand actively engages in social justice issues, such as racial equality and LGBTQ+ rights, demonstrating its CSR philosophy beyond just product offerings.
5. In 2000, Ben & Jerry's was acquired by Unilever but has maintained its independent branding and commitment to social missions.

Review Questions

• How does Ben & Jerry's incorporate CSR into its business model?
  • Ben & Jerry's incorporates CSR into its business model by prioritizing social and environmental responsibility in its operations. The company uses Fairtrade-certified ingredients to support global farmers and ensure fair wages while actively engaging in issues such as climate change and social justice. This commitment is evident not only in their sourcing practices but also in their marketing strategies that promote awareness on important societal topics.
• Discuss the impact of Fair Trade practices on Ben & Jerry's global supply chain.
  • Fair Trade practices significantly impact Ben & Jerry's global supply chain by ensuring that the ingredients they source meet ethical standards for sustainability and equitable treatment of producers. By partnering with Fairtrade-certified suppliers, Ben & Jerry's helps to empower farmers by providing them with fair prices and better working conditions. This creates a more sustainable supply chain that supports local economies and aligns with the company's values of social responsibility.
• Evaluate how Ben & Jerry's advocacy for social justice affects its brand identity and market position globally.
  • Ben & Jerry's strong advocacy for social justice not only strengthens its brand identity but also enhances its market position globally. By taking stances on controversial issues like racial equality and climate change, the brand connects deeply with socially conscious consumers who prioritize ethical consumption. This commitment differentiates Ben & Jerry's from competitors, allowing it to build a loyal customer base that appreciates its transparency and dedication to creating positive societal impacts while enjoying their products.

Related terms

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): A business model that helps a company be socially accountable to itself, its stakeholders, and the public by integrating ethical practices in its operations.

Fair Trade: A movement aimed at helping producers in developing countries achieve better trading conditions and promote sustainability through equitable trade practices.

Sustainable Sourcing: The practice of procuring goods and services in a way that takes into account environmental, social, and economic impacts to ensure long-term viability.