From Humble Beginnings to a $325 Million Sale
Back in 1978, Ben Cohen and his childhood buddy Jerry Greenfield decided to turn their shared passion for ice cream into a business. With just $12,000 in savings and a $4,000 loan, they opened their first ice cream shop in a renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont. Who would’ve thought that this little venture would one day become a global phenomenon? By 1987, the company was valued at $30 million, and by 2000, Ben & Jerry’s was sold to the conglomerate Unilever for a staggering $325 million. This sale significantly boosted Ben Cohen’s net worth, catapulting him into the league of successful entrepreneurs.
Life After Selling Ben & Jerry’s
Although Ben Cohen stepped down as CEO in 1996, he remained deeply involved in the company until its acquisition by Unilever in 2000. Since then, he’s served on the company’s advisory board, ensuring the brand stays true to its roots. But Ben didn’t stop there. His passion for activism and social responsibility has driven him to focus on causes that matter. For instance, when asked why Ben & Jerry's ice cream was still sold in Georgia and Texas despite controversial laws, he humorously replied, “I don’t know, and by that reasoning, we shouldn’t sell ice cream anywhere.” It’s this kind of wit and wisdom that makes Ben so relatable.
The Birth of an Ice Cream Empire
Let’s rewind to the early days of Ben & Jerry’s. In 1980, Greenfield and Cohen began selling their pints in grocery stores, expanding their reach beyond their Vermont shop. By 1981, the first franchised Ben & Jerry’s shop opened, marking the beginning of a global expansion. It wasn’t long before their unique flavors and commitment to social activism set them apart from the competition. The company’s meteoric rise is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. And as of 2025, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield have each amassed a net worth of approximately $200 million.
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Ben Cohen’s Personal Life and Philanthropy
Beyond his business success, Ben Cohen has always been passionate about giving back. He owns several properties, including a home in Manchester, England, and a farm in Iowa, USA. His constantly growing car collection, which includes rare and luxurious vehicles, reflects his love for finer things in life. But more importantly, his philanthropic efforts have left a lasting impact on communities around the world. Whether it’s supporting environmental causes or advocating for social justice, Ben Cohen continues to inspire others with his actions.
Ben Chen: Another Entrepreneurial Success Story
While we’re on the topic of Ben Cohen, let’s not forget another notable Ben—Ben Chen. As the founder of Gold Rush Rally, an event described as a “rolling party with over 200 of your friends,” Chen has carved out his own niche in the entrepreneurial world. His estimated net worth in 2023 was around $1 billion, thanks to his success in the financial technology industry. Chen’s investments in prime properties and rare cars, like his Bugatti Veyron Super Sport Pur Blanc, have further contributed to his wealth.
Paulina Ben Cohen: The Reality TV Star
Not to be confused with the ice cream tycoon, Paulina Ben Cohen is an American reality TV star, blogger, and social media influencer. Best known for her role on “Shahs of Sunset,” she has built a net worth of $1.5 million. Her rise to fame began as the girlfriend of reality star Mike Shouhed, and she continues to captivate audiences with her charisma and charm. While her wealth may not rival that of Ben Cohen, Paulina has carved out her own successful path in the entertainment industry.
Estimating Net Worth: A Closer Look
When it comes to calculating net worth, figures can vary widely depending on factors like asset valuation, market conditions, and business performance. For instance, Benjamin Chen’s net worth is estimated to be anywhere from $10 million to $15 million, while some sources suggest it could be as high as $2 billion to $4 billion. Meanwhile, Ben Cohen’s net worth stands at around $150 million, primarily derived from his ice cream business. And let’s not forget Ben Chen, whose estimated net worth in 2023 was around $1 billion.
What Makes Ben Cohen Stand Out?
Ben Cohen’s journey from a $12,000 startup budget to becoming an iconic ice cream mogul is nothing short of inspiring. His ability to blend business success with social responsibility has set him apart from other entrepreneurs. Whether he’s advocating for environmental sustainability or supporting grassroots movements, Ben Cohen’s impact extends far beyond the world of ice cream. And with a net worth of $150 million, he’s proven that doing good and doing well can go hand in hand.
Final Thoughts
In a world where success is often measured by wealth, Ben Cohen reminds us that true fulfillment comes from making a difference. From his humble beginnings in a renovated gas station to his current status as a global entrepreneur and philanthropist, Ben’s story is a powerful reminder that anything is possible with passion, perseverance, and a little bit of ice cream. So the next time you enjoy a scoop of Ben & Jerry’s, remember the man behind the brand and the legacy he continues to build.
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