Isak Andic, the billionaire pioneer behind the internationally renowned fashion brand Mango, tragically died over the weekend while hiking in the scenic cave-rich areas near Barcelona. The incident occurred on Saturday when the 71-year-old stumbled and fell down a ravine during an exploratory outing in the Montserrat mountains, a locale known for its striking formations and deep caves.
Accompanied by his son and other family members at the time, Andic’s fall activated a swift emergency response which included a helicopter and specialized mountain rescue unit. Spanish media outlet El Pais reported the fall took place at a depth of approximately 150 meters.
Andic's entrepreneurial journey began in 1984 with his brother Nahman in Barcelona. Under his leadership, Mango flourished into a dominant player in the global fashion scene, establishing nearly 3,000 retail outlets across 120 countries. Forbes valued his net worth at around $4.5 billion, highlighting his substantial impact on the industry.
In response to the news, Mango’s CEO Toni Ruiz expressed deep sorrow, stating, "His departure leaves a huge void but all of us are, in some way, his legacy and the testimony of his achievements." He emphasized the team’s commitment to carry forward Andic’s vision for the brand, which has become a symbol of fashionable and accessible clothing worldwide.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez also acknowledged Andic’s contribution to the industry, praising his innovative spirit that positioned the brand as a global leader in fashion. "All my love and recognition for your great work and business vision," Sanchez noted, reaffirming Andic's role in shaping the renowned Spanish firm.
Additionally, Salvador Illa Roca, the president of Catalonia's government, expressed his sorrow over the loss, lauding Andic as a committed businessman whose efforts contributed significantly to Catalonia's recognition on a global stage.
Having relocated to Catalonia in the 1960s, Andic remained a non-executive chairman of Mango at the time of his untimely passing. The brand’s reputation soared in the UK following the announcement of British supermodel Kate Moss as its face back in 2011, igniting its appeal and shaping contemporary style.
Mango’s turnover was recorded at €3.1 billion in 2023, and the reverberations of Andic’s unexpectedly tragic loss will be felt profoundly throughout the fashion community and beyond.
