What happens when an iconic ice cream brand teams up with an electric vehicle innovator? A deliciously green revolution! Ben & Jerry’s and Rivian have partnered to introduce two all-electric scoop trucks, proving that sustainability and indulgence can go hand in hand.
Set to debut at South by Southwest (SXSW) before traveling across the country, these eco-friendly trucks bring a fresh, fossil-fuel-free spin to ice cream on wheels. This collaboration reflects a broader industry trend toward sustainable business practices, offering a glimpse into the future of food service logistics.
Rolling out the future of ice cream
Ben & Jerry’s, the Vermont-based ice cream giant, has joined forces with Rivian, the American electric vehicle manufacturer, to modernize the classic ice cream truck. The companies have unveiled two electric “scoop trucks” built on the Rivian Commercial Van platform. These innovative vehicles will not only serve up fan-favorite flavors but also reduce carbon emissions along the way.
- First stop: The trucks will make their grand debut at SXSW in Austin, Texas.
- Hitting the road: After SXSW, the trucks will travel to various events nationwide, including in Ben & Jerry’s home state of Vermont.
- Green and clean: The project aligns with both brands’ missions to prioritize sustainability without compromising performance.
Scooping up a greener future!
This partnership is more than just a marketing move—it’s a reflection of the growing push toward sustainable business practices in the food and beverage industry. With more consumers prioritizing eco-friendly brands, companies are under pressure to rethink their supply chains and reduce their environmental impact. The Ben & Jerry’s and Rivian collaboration demonstrates how food companies can innovate in ways that benefit both consumers and the planet.
- Sustainability sells: Eco-conscious consumers are shaping the future of food service, and brands that embrace sustainability are gaining a competitive edge.
- Electrification trend: Rivian’s expansion into commercial electric vehicles is a sign that businesses are looking for cleaner transportation solutions.
- Positive brand impact: Both Ben & Jerry’s and Rivian strengthen their reputations as forward-thinking, responsible brands.
“Working with Rivian, an industry leader that is committed to sustainability, is an ice cream dream come true. Today, Rivian helped Ben & Jerry’s reduce our reliance on fossil fuels in a small way while making things a little bit cooler… which, as an ice cream company, is extremely difficult to do.” Ben & Jerry’s Sean Slattery, US Integrated Marketing project lead.
Sweet rides, sweeter mission
For suppliers, manufacturers, and food brands, this collaboration underscores a key industry shift—sustainability is becoming a must-have rather than a nice-to-have. Whether it’s sourcing bulk ingredients with a lower carbon footprint or rethinking distribution methods, businesses that prioritize eco-conscious strategies will be better positioned for long-term success.
- Increased demand for sustainable ingredients: Companies are looking for suppliers who align with their environmental values.
- Supply chain innovation: From production to transportation, food brands are exploring greener logistics solutions.
- The future of mobile food service: Expect to see more electric and sustainable food trucks in the coming years.
Ben & Jerry’s goes full charge!
“Collaborating with the Ben & Jerry’s team to build the next generation of electric scoop trucks has been an incredible experience. It’s one of those projects that just makes the team smile. We can’t wait for people to stop by for some ice cream and see it in action for the first time during SXSW!” Brian Gase, Senior Director of Prototype Development at Rivian.
The collaboration between Ben & Jerry’s and Rivian is more than a fun, flashy project—it’s a glimpse into the future of food logistics. As more brands embrace sustainable solutions, we’re likely to see an industry-wide shift toward electric transportation and eco-friendly supply chains.
Whether you’re a bulk supplier, manufacturer, or just an ice cream lover, this news is a sign that sustainability is here to stay. For more insights into food industry trends and sustainable ingredient sourcing, feel free to contact us or explore our range of ingredients. At Source86, we’ve got your back!
