What was the total value of Ben Jerrys' liabilities in 2023?
Ben_Jerrys Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| BEN & JERRY'S FRANCHISING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY | ||
|---|---|---|
| Consolidated Balance Sheets | ||
| (In Thousands) | ||
| 2023 | 2022 | |
| Assets | ||
| Current assets | ||
| Cash | $ 1,386 | $ 1,308 |
| Accounts receivable, allowance for credit losses of $45 | 375 | 321 |
| and $105 at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively | ||
| Due from parent, net | 23,241 | 18,415 |
| Inventories | 219 | 182 |
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 416 | 289 |
| Total current assets | 25,637 | 20,515 |
| Deposits | - | 4 |
| Deferred tax assets | 276 | 500 |
| Fixed assets, net | 546 | 688 |
| Right of use asset, operating | 346 | 423 |
| Right of use asset, financing | - | 36 |
| Intangible assets, net | 705 | 705 |
| Total assets | $ 27,510 | $ 22,871 |
| Liabilities and Equity | ||
| Current liabilities | ||
| Accounts payable | $ 541 | $ 678 |
| Accrued liabilities | 1,244 | 1,657 |
| Due to related party | 7,282 | 3,236 |
| Current tax liabilities | 165 | - |
| Current portion of operating lease liability | 76 | 73 |
Source: Item 21 — FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (FDD pages 89–133)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Ben Jerrys's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the company's total liabilities for 2023 were $9,790,000. This figure represents the sum of all current and non-current liabilities that Ben Jerrys owed to various creditors and parties at the end of the fiscal year. These liabilities include accounts payable, accrued liabilities, amounts due to related parties, tax liabilities, lease obligations, and deferred revenue. Understanding the composition and magnitude of these liabilities is crucial for assessing the financial health and stability of Ben Jerrys.
Specifically, the current liabilities, which are due within one year, totaled $9,355,000 in 2023. This includes items such as accounts payable ($541,000), accrued liabilities ($1,244,000), and amounts due to related parties ($7,282,000). Non-current liabilities, which extend beyond one year, amounted to $435,000, primarily consisting of deferred revenue and lease obligations. The significant portion of liabilities due to related parties suggests a close financial relationship between Ben Jerrys and its parent company or affiliates, which could impact the company's financial flexibility and independence.
For a prospective franchisee, this information is essential for evaluating the financial risk associated with investing in a Ben Jerrys franchise. A high level of liabilities could indicate potential financial strain on the company, which might affect its ability to support franchisees or invest in the brand. Conversely, a manageable level of liabilities, especially when compared to assets and equity, can signal financial stability and responsible management. Therefore, a detailed review of Ben Jerrys's balance sheets and related financial statements is a critical step in the due diligence process for any potential franchisee.