Jerry Greenfield

Date of Birth: March 14, 1951

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Biography

Jerry Greenfield is an American businessman best known as the co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Holdings, Inc., a Vermont-based ice cream company. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised on Long Island. Jerry met his future business partner, Ben Cohen, in junior high school, and the two formed a lasting friendship. After attending Oberlin College, where Jerry studied pre-med, he worked various jobs while trying to gain admission to medical school. When that plan didn’t pan out, Jerry and Ben decided to start a business together. With a $12,000 investment, including a $4,000 loan, they opened their first ice cream shop in an old gas station in Burlington, Vermont, in 1978. The company quickly grew in popularity for its unique flavors and commitment to social causes. Today, Ben & Jerry’s is a globally recognized brand. Jerry remains a vocal advocate for social and environmental issues and continues to be involved with the company.

5 Interesting Facts about Jerry Greenfield

1. Jerry Greenfield and Ben Cohen initially took a $5 correspondence course in ice cream-making from Penn State.

2. Ben & Jerry’s is known for its quirky ice cream flavors like “Cherry Garcia” and “Chunky Monkey.”

3. The company has a strong commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability, often taking stances on controversial issues.

4. In 2000, Ben & Jerry’s was acquired by the multinational food giant Unilever, but it continues to operate with a high degree of independence.

5. Jerry Greenfield has received numerous awards for his business acumen and social activism, including the James Beard Humanitarian of the Year Award.