Business Wars Häagen-Dazs vs Ben & Jerry's | Hunger Games | 5
Jun 8, 2022
In the late '90s, Häagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry's find themselves in an intense rivalry as Unilever and Nestlé fight for dominance in the ice cream market. The tensions escalate with unexpected alliances and strategic corporate moves, including a contentious buyout proposal. As bids for Ben & Jerry's soar, the founders grapple with the emotional weight of their legacy versus shareholder interests. This deep dive reveals not just delectable flavors but the ethical challenges and brand identities that shape these iconic companies.
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Initial Rejection and Strategic Alliance
- Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry's, vehemently rejects Dreyer's initial takeover offer in 1998.
- CEO Perry Odak proposes a distribution deal with rival Häagen-Dazs to strengthen their independence.
Unexpected Customer Loyalty
- Research shows that customers rarely switch between Häagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry's, making them less direct competitors than assumed.
- This surprising finding supports the strategic decision of a distribution partnership.
Dreyer's Retaliation Plan
- Dreyer's CEO, Gary Rogers, rallies his employees after Ben & Jerry's terminates their distribution deal and partners with Häagen-Dazs.
- He vows to retaliate by developing a competing super-premium ice cream brand.
