Ben Cohen, co-founder of the iconic ice cream brand Ben & Jerry's, has a fascinating entrepreneurial journey that began in the bustling streets of New York City. Born in 1951, Cohen's path to success was
marked by creativity, determination, and a unique approach to business. His story is not just about building a successful company but also about the values and principles that guided him along the way.
Early Life and Education
Ben Cohen was born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Merrick, Long Island. His upbringing in a Jewish family laid the foundation for his future endeavors. Cohen's early education included attending Sanford H. Calhoun High School, where he met Jerry Greenfield, his future business partner. Their friendship, which began in a seventh-grade gym class, would later become the cornerstone of their business venture.
Cohen's academic journey was diverse, as he attended several institutions, including Colgate University, Skidmore College, New York University, and the University of Massachusetts. Despite his varied educational experiences, Cohen ultimately decided to leave college after his sophomore year to pursue his passion for pottery. This decision marked the beginning of his unconventional path to entrepreneurship.
Founding Ben & Jerry's
In 1977, Cohen and Greenfield decided to start a business together. Initially, they considered opening a bagel shop but switched to ice cream due to the high cost of bagel-making equipment. In May 1978, they opened Ben & Jerry's Homemade Ice Cream Parlor in Burlington, Vermont, a college town with no ice cream shop at the time. Cohen's anosmia, a condition that affects the sense of smell, led him to create ice cream with larger chunks to satisfy his need for texture.
Ben & Jerry's quickly gained popularity for its unique flavors and commitment to quality. Cohen's innovative approach to ice cream making and his focus on social responsibility helped the brand stand out in a competitive market. By 1996, Cohen had resigned as CEO, and in 2000, he and Greenfield sold the company to Unilever.
Beyond Ice Cream: Other Ventures
Cohen's entrepreneurial spirit did not end with Ben & Jerry's. In March 2023, he launched Ben's Best Blnz, a non-profit firm offering cannabis products. This venture aimed to address the injustices of the war on drugs and reduce the racial wealth gap. Proceeds from sales were distributed among organizations like the Last Prisoner Project and the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance.
Cohen's business ventures reflect his commitment to social justice and progressive causes. His journey from an ice cream vendor to a successful businessman is a testament to his innovative thinking and dedication to making a positive impact on society.
