Ben Jerrys Homemade Inc Case Analysis
Problem Identification: Ben & Jerry’s Homemade, Inc. was started by two childhood friends, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield in Burlington, VT in the late 1970’s. ... The case is set in 2000. ... The investor value measures of Ben & Jerry’s compared to other companies in the industry are shown in Exhibit 1. ... Underlying the mission of Ben & Jerrys is the determination to seek new and creative ways of addressing all three parts, while holding a deep respect for individuals, inside and outside the company, and for the communities of which they are a part. Due to Ben & Jerry’s highly differentiated products and their focus on social issues, the company faced many changes in their operating environment. ... Analysis of Alternatives: The company could remain independent and probably still be highly profitable and continue to grow. ... Even though they have enjoyed strong sales growth, Ben and Jerry’s has not increased shareholder wealth a great deal. ... Dreyer’s Grand is offering $31 per share and is willing to let Ben and Jerry’s keep its management team. ... Chartwell wants a minority interest in the company and wants a new management team but will allow Ben and Jerry’s to operate as an independent firm. ... Summary and Conclusions: In order to remain competitive and increase shareholder value, Ben & Jerry’s Homemade, Inc. ... Of the four companies interested in purchasing Ben & Jerry’s, Unilever is offering the highest price. ... Unilever has offices and plants located throughout the United States and could help Ben & Jerry’s increase share value while decreasing manufacturing and selling costs.