What was the reported value of 'Due from parent, net' for Ben Jerrys in 2023?
Ben_Jerrys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
nt and utility costs and $30 for other services in 2022.
Conopco has committed to provide additional funding to the Company, in the event that BJF requires such funds.
Ben & Jerry's Franchising, Inc. facilitates the sale of bulk tubs of ice cream by Homemade, Inc. to the Company-owned and franchise scoop shops. The Company receives commission revenue of 20%, on the sales they facilitate. The amount of commission revenue earned in 2023 and 2022 was
Source: Item 21 — FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (FDD pages 89–133)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Ben Jerrys's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the 'Due from parent, net' value for 2023 was $23,241 (in thousands). This figure represents the net amount due from Ben Jerrys's parent company, Homemade, Inc. This balance reflects intercompany receivables and payables that are settled periodically. Because Ben Jerrys has the right and intent to offset amounts due to and from its parent, these are presented as a single net amount on the consolidated balance sheet. This amount is classified as a current asset on the balance sheet.
For a prospective franchisee, this indicates the level of financial interaction between Ben Jerrys and its parent company. It is important to note that Homemade, Inc. is in turn a subsidiary of Conopco, Inc., which is an indirect subsidiary of Unilever. The FDD notes that Homemade and Conopco provide services to Ben Jerrys including cash management, processing of accounts payable and payroll, and payment of items like workers compensation and insurance. Ben Jerrys reimburses these parent companies for these services.
The 'Due from parent, net' balance can fluctuate based on the timing of these intercompany transactions and settlements. A significant change in this balance from year to year could reflect changes in how Ben Jerrys is utilizing the services of its parent company, or changes in the timing of intercompany payments.
Franchisees should be aware that Ben Jerrys relies on its parent companies for various support functions, and the financial relationship between these entities can impact Ben Jerrys's financial performance. Understanding these relationships can provide a more complete picture of the financial stability and operational structure of the Ben Jerrys franchise system.