**Ben & Jerry's: A Legacy of Joy and Justice** Ben & Jerry's is an iconic ice cream company founded in 1978 by childhood friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield in Burlington, Vermont. Initially operating from a renovated gas station, the duo's innovative approach to ice cream, emphasizing natural ingredients and quirky flavors, quickly gained popularity. Early successes included the introduction of unique flavors like Cherry Garcia, named after the Grateful Dead guitarist, and the establishment of the Ben & Jerry's Foundation, which allocates 7.5% of the company's pre-tax profits to community projects[1][2]. **History and Achievements** Ben & Jerry's expanded rapidly, opening its first franchise in 1981 and going public in 1984[6]. The company's commitment to sustainability and social justice was revolutionary, setting a precedent by using Fairtrade-certified ingredients[3]. In 1989, Ben & Jerry's opened a factory in Waterbury, Vermont, which became a major tourist attraction[2]. The company's global expansion began in the 1990s, with operations in the UK by 1994[5]. In 2000, Ben & Jerry's was acquired by Unilever, allowing it to reach 33 countries worldwide[3][5]. **Current Status and Notable Aspects** Today, Ben & Jerry's is known for its three-part mission: **Product Mission** (quality natural ingredients), **Economic Mission** (sustainable growth), and **Social Mission** (community support)[3]. The company continues to innovate, with recent initiatives focusing on environmental sustainability and social activism. Ben & Jerry's remains a leader in the ice cream industry, celebrated for its unique flavors and commitment to social responsibility[5]. Notable aspects include its annual Free Cone Day, which began in 1979 as a thank-you to loyal customers[5]. The brand's quirky marketing strategies, such as the Cowmobile, have also contributed to