How did Ben Cohen turn a small ice cream shop into a global brand? His financial journey is fascinating, from co-founding Ben & Jerry’s to selling the company to Unilever.
Today, many wonder how much he earns and what drives his wealth.
This article explores Ben Cohen net worth, his income sources, business ventures, and financial impact after selling Ben & Jerry’s.
Ben Cohen Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Bennett Cohen |
| Popular Name | Ben Cohen |
| Birth Date | March 18, 1951 |
| Age (as of 03/12/2025) | 73 years old |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jewish |
| Education | Colgate University, Skidmore College, NYU, University of Massachusetts (did not complete) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Kari Hirsch |
| Children | Aretha Cohen |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | None |
| Parents | Frances Cohen (Mother), Irving Cohen (Father) |
| Height (meters) | N/A |
| Net Worth | $150 million |
| Source of Wealth | Co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, Salary from Unilever, Philanthropy |
What is the Net Worth Of Ben Cohen in 2025?
Ben Cohen has an estimated net worth of $150 million.
This fortune comes mainly from Ben & Jerry’s, the ice cream empire he co-founded. Although he stepped away from the company after Unilever’s $326 million acquisition in 2000, he still earns from the brand.
Compared to other business moguls in the food industry, Cohen’s wealth is substantial but modest when compared to billionaires like Howard Schultz of Starbucks.
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Ben Cohen Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Did He Build His Wealth?
Ben Cohen’s financial success started with Ben & Jerry’s, which he co-founded with Jerry Greenfield in 1978.
They invested $8,000 in savings and took a $4,000 loan to start an ice cream shop in Vermont. Initially, they considered selling bagels but pivoted to ice cream due to lower startup costs.
His unique approach to ice cream, adding large chunks to compensate for his anosmia (lack of smell and taste), made their products stand out. By 1987, Ben & Jerry’s was worth $30 million. By 2000, it was acquired by Unilever for $326 million, significantly increasing Cohen’s wealth.
How Much Does He Earn Today?
Although Cohen is no longer involved in the day-to-day operations of Ben & Jerry’s, he still receives a salary from Unilever as part of the acquisition deal.
His earnings also stem from:
- Royalties from Ben & Jerry’s brand
- Investments in socially responsible businesses
- Speaking engagements and book sales
What Was the Financial Impact of Ben & Jerry’s Acquisition?
The Unilever acquisition marked a major shift in Cohen’s financial status. When Unilever bought Ben & Jerry’s in 2000, it made several commitments:
- Maintaining Ben & Jerry’s social mission
- Paying above-market rates to Vermont dairy farmers
- Donating 7.5% of pre-tax profits to charity
- Retaining an independent board of directors
While Cohen profited from the deal, he also ensured the company’s progressive values remained intact.
What Are His Investments and Business Ventures?
Beyond ice cream, Cohen has invested in socially conscious businesses. In 2023, he launched Ben’s Best Blnz (B3), a nonprofit cannabis company aimed at addressing the racial wealth gap. The company donates its profits to:
- Last Prisoner Project
- Vermont Racial Justice Alliance
- NuProject
Additionally, Cohen funds progressive advocacy groups like TrueMajority and Business Leaders for Sensible Priorities.
How Does He Use His Wealth for Social Causes?
Cohen’s commitment to philanthropy is evident through his involvement in the Ben & Jerry’s Foundation, which supports:
- Social justice movements
- Housing rights advocacy
- Environmental sustainability
He also launched the Stamp Stampede campaign, a movement pushing for campaign finance reform by stamping messages on U.S. currency. His activism and donations align with his financial success, proving that wealth and social responsibility can coexist.
How Has His Financial Influence Shaped the Ice Cream Industry?
Ben Cohen’s impact on the food industry extends beyond financial gains. His commitment to fair trade, non-GMO ingredients, and ethical sourcing influenced major food brands.
Key contributions include:
- Advocating for fair pay for dairy farmers
- Promoting environmentally friendly business practices
- Encouraging corporate social responsibility
His business model has inspired a wave of purpose-driven companies, showing that profitability and ethical responsibility can go hand in hand.
Conclusion
Ben Cohen’s financial journey is a testament to building wealth with purpose. From co-founding Ben & Jerry’s to selling it for millions, his financial influence continues through investments, philanthropy, and activism. Want more insights into celebrity finances? Visit Aupeo for the latest updates!
