A conversation with the owner of Ben and Jerry, Vivian Murriel,
“I would consider myself a connoisseur of ice cream – I like quality ice cream which for me is an avenue for a sweet escape towards momentary pleasure. I also like that Ben & Jerry’s is deeply anchored to give back to the community through its values, its activism and its support. It is always more than ice cream, it is the authenticity for which they represent.” – Vivian Murriel, owner of Ben and Jerry’s
“We are delighted to welcome a Ben & Jerry franchise belonging to Toledo, belonging to women. – April Welch, Deputy Director of Economic Development
What inspired you to become a business owner, and what specifically attracted you by the possession of a Ben & Jerry?
When I eat ice cream, I absolutely must have a superior ice cream. Sometimes I went to Cleveland and sometimes Columbus just to get something special – especially when I dragged my family. I think the moment I crossed the state lines to get ice cream was a turning point and a realization that Toledo needed super premium ice cream.
I knew that I wanted to have something in the super premium ice cream space – something of high quality. For me, it was the sophisticated combination of texture, flavor and how the ice engages the palace which should be fair. I wanted ice cream that seemed special, roughly like a Disney experience in a cone. This ice is just better – there is something magical about it.
I have always wanted to own a business that would hire the community and make people smile. When I discovered the Ben & Jerry franchise opportunity, I was attracted to the values of the environmental sustainability of the company, fair trade practices and community engagement. I love the idea of serving something that brings joy to people’s lives while giving back to the community.
The ice cream has always given me a euphoric feeling – since I was a little girl, and I wanted to offer the same experience to others. Ben & Jerry’s is also a strong mark – the one that aligns with my personal values of respect, inclusiveness and social justice. It looked like the ideal occasion to mix my passion for business with my desire to have a positive impact.
How did you obtain the business development loan program (EDL) helped you open your businessHaving April at the Economic Development Office of the city of Toledo made me feel, as a woman – that I had a defender. I could connect with her. Being new in business, I needed this sweet landing – and April was exactly that for me. It was almost as if she held my hand and gave me this additional boost of entrepreneurial confidence.
I kept thinking about me: “It is a total unknown. I have never met this woman before, but it made me feel that the city really wanted me to succeed.” It was not only about economic development – it was truly invested in the success of my business.
As a woman, you want to feel mentally ready to try a new business and take a market. The market will not marginalize you simply because you are a woman if you bring your own intuition, your foresight and your unique forces to the table.
As a business woman, did you face unique challenges and how did you overcome them?
Yes, as a woman, I faced challenges in the business world. At the start of this business, I felt like I had to prove myself, especially as a young career woman who runs a business. Several times people compared my abilities to my career.
To overcome this, I looked at my strength: first my faith in God, then – my confidence, my knowledge of the brand and my commitment to make the work. I always made sure that I was well prepared and that I presented myself as a strong leader.
Another challenge is to balance work and personal life. As a business owner, there is often an expectation of spending long hours, but I learned to prioritize self -cobs and set limits to maintain balance. I surround myself with other women entrepreneurs and mentors was also incredibly useful for responding to these challenges.
Who are some of the people who have inspired you the most, whether in your personal life or in your career?
A great support for me was my husband, Maurice. I direct things by him – asking myself what he thinks and obtaining his point of view. What I really like about him is that he lets me learn to do business as a woman.
He is there as a support system at each stage, but he did not overshadow my process either. He gives me space to learn and grow while offering advice when I need it. This balance was so precious.
My mom is my greatest inspiration. She faced her own set of challenges but has always persevered with grace and determination. She is the most resilient woman I know. She taught me that kindness and hard work always pay great dividends. My sister Ella and my daughter Libby were also strong inspirations for me – encouraging me at each stage of the path.
In the business world, I am inspired by women like Sheryl Sandberg, who has shown what it means to be a strong and successful woman in leadership. I also admire Indra Nooyi and Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala – The two women whose leadership has been transformer of the international business world. Oprah is also the one who crossed barriers as a woman to establish an empire of the media. I am also inspired by owners of local businesses who support and raise each other. Their resilience and camaraderie are a daily reminder that we are all in the same genre.
What advice would you give to young women who wish to become entrepreneurs or assume leadership roles?
My advice would be to be intrepid by continuing your dreams. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something because you’re a woman. Entrepreneurship has its own set of challenges, but these challenges are also what makes it so rewarding. Stay faithful to your values, don’t be afraid of a “no” for an answer and continue to learn. Surround yourself with a network of supporters – other women, mentors and peers – who can offer advice, advice and encouragement if necessary. Also make sure to take care of yourself mentally and physically. It is easy to get caught up in restlessness, but personal care is essential for long -term success. Finally, trust your intestine. You know what is best for your business, and you should never underestimate your ability to direct. My advice is to continue having fun.
Talk to me a little about you
I am a practical gastroenterologist and a Nigerian-American who grew up in Maryland. I love reading and traveling – absolutely enjoy nature and outdoor. An adventure in 2025 would be the exploration of the scene of the arts, museums and arts of the Toledo show.
Ben and Jerry
3305 Central Ave A2-35, Toledo, Oh 43606
PH: (419) 214-1859
Hours: Monday – troop from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Friday-dimanche from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: Benjerry.com
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