What was the total shareholder's equity for Ben Jerrys at the end of 2023?
Ben_Jerrys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Shareholder's equity | ||
|---|---|---|
| Common stock ($1 par value, authorized 1,000 shares; | ||
| issued and outstanding, 100 shares) | - | - |
| Additional paid-in capital | 14,311 | 14,311 |
| Retained earnings | 3,409 | 2,248 |
| Total equity | 17,720 | 16,559 |
Source: Item 21 — FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (FDD pages 89–133)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Ben Jerrys's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the consolidated balance sheets show the company's shareholder's equity. At the end of 2023, Ben Jerrys had a total shareholder's equity of $17,720,000. This is comprised of $14,311,000 in additional paid-in capital and $3,409,000 in retained earnings.
Understanding shareholder's equity is crucial for prospective franchisees as it provides insight into the financial stability and net worth of Ben Jerrys. A higher equity figure generally indicates a stronger financial position, suggesting that the company has more assets than liabilities. This can be reassuring for franchisees who are considering investing in the brand, as it implies that Ben Jerrys is well-managed and has a solid foundation.
It's also worth noting that Ben Jerrys's parent company, Homemade, provides financial support to ensure the company can meet its obligations. This support is documented via a parental support letter. While the shareholder's equity provides a snapshot of the company's financial health, the ongoing support from its parent company further strengthens its financial stability. Franchisees should review these financial statements and related notes carefully to assess the overall financial condition of Ben Jerrys before making any investment decisions.