Mango Founder Isak Andic Dies in Hiking Accident Near Barcelona, Leaving Behind a Fashion Empire
The fashion world mourns the sudden loss of Isak Andic, the billionaire founder of international clothing retailer Mango. Andic, 71, died on Saturday following a hiking accident near Barcelona, Spain, according to the company and local authorities. His unexpected passing leaves a void in the industry and marks the end of an era for the global brand he built from the ground up. Andic’s visionary leadership transformed a single Barcelona storefront into a multinational fashion powerhouse, with over 2,100 stores in 11 countries and a family fortune estimated at $4.5 billion.
The circumstances surrounding Andic’s death point to a tragic accident during a family outing. While Mango CEO Toni Ruiz confirmed Andic’s death following an accident, he refrained from providing specific details. However, local reports indicate that Andic fell while hiking with family members near the Collbató caves of Salitre, a popular tourist destination located a short distance from Barcelona. Catalan police responded to reports of a 71-year-old man falling down a 320-foot ravine in the area. Although police recovered a body, they have yet to officially confirm the victim’s identity. A source close to the situation, however, confirmed to CNN that the victim was indeed Isak Andic.
Andic’s contribution to the fashion industry, particularly in his adopted home of Catalonia, has been widely acknowledged. Salvador Illa, the president of Catalonia’s regional government, expressed his condolences on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating that Andic left "an indelible mark on the Catalan and global fashion sector." Illa praised Andic for his role in elevating Catalonia’s prominence and projecting its influence on the world stage. The sentiment reflects the significant economic and cultural impact Mango has had on the region. Andic’s entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen helped establish Catalonia as a hub for fashion and retail, generating jobs and contributing significantly to the local economy.
Andic’s journey began in Istanbul, Turkey, where he was born in 1953. At the age of 14, he relocated to Barcelona, the city that would become the foundation for his future success. In 1984, he and his brother, Nahman, opened their first clothing store, marking the beginning of the Mango empire. The brothers initially focused on expanding their presence throughout Spain, followed by neighboring Portugal and France, all under the now-iconic Mango brand. The company’s strategic expansion continued throughout the 1990s, leading to its international debut in 1992. By 2007, Mango celebrated a major milestone, reaching 1,000 stores worldwide.
Today, Mango’s reach extends to over 120 markets globally, employing more than 15,500 people. The company’s business model, characterized by trendy, affordable clothing and a focus on international markets, has proven highly successful. International sales contribute to approximately three-quarters of Mango’s total revenue, a testament to Andic’s global vision. His ability to anticipate and respond to evolving fashion trends, combined with a keen understanding of international markets, positioned Mango as a major player in the fast-fashion landscape. Andic’s legacy extends beyond the brand’s financial success; his leadership shaped the company’s culture and instilled a strong entrepreneurial spirit within its ranks.
With Andic’s passing, the reins of the Mango empire are expected to be handed over to his son, Jonathan, who currently serves on the company’s board. While the loss of its founder is undoubtedly a significant blow to Mango, Jonathan’s involvement in the business suggests a degree of continuity and a prepared succession plan. The future trajectory of Mango under Jonathan’s leadership remains to be seen, but the foundation built by his father provides a strong platform for continued growth and innovation. The fashion world will undoubtedly watch closely as Mango navigates this transition and strives to maintain its position as a leading global retailer in the face of this immense loss. Andic’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and fashion leaders, reminding them of the power of vision, hard work, and a dedication to building a global brand from humble beginnings.
