Isak Andic, founder of fashion chain Mango, dies in accident, aged 71

Isak Andic, the creator of the popular fashion brand Mango, has passed away following a hiking incident in Spain on Saturday, according to a statement from the company.

According to local news reports, the 71-year-old billionaire lost his footing and fell from a 150-meter high cliff while hiking with family in the Montserrat caves close to Barcelona.

According to El País, Andic's son was present when the accident happened. Authorities were notified around 1 PM, prompting the deployment of a helicopter and a specialized mountain unit to the location.

Mango's CEO, Toni Ruiz, expressed his sorrow in a statement: “We are profoundly saddened to share the sudden passing of Isak Andic, our non-executive chairman and the founder of Mango, due to an accident that took place this Saturday.”

Isak has served as a role model for everyone. He devoted his life to Mango, leaving a lasting impact through his insightful vision, motivating leadership, and steadfast adherence to the principles he instilled in our organization.

“His legacy showcases the accomplishments of a successful business initiative, while also highlighting his personal qualities. He was always approachable and consistently demonstrated kindness and warmth to everyone in the organization.”

"His leaving creates a significant gap, but each of us represents his legacy and serves as a testament to what he accomplished."

The message continued: "It's our responsibility, and this is the most meaningful honor we can give to Isak. We are committed to making sure that Mango evolves into the project he dreamed of and would take pride in."

"During these incredibly challenging times, we feel the family's sorrow as if it were our own."

Andic was born in Istanbul and moved with his family to the northeastern region of Catalonia in Spain when he was 13 years old, leaving Turkey in the 1960s.

He began by offering T-shirts to his classmates at an American high school in Barcelona. This young business owner eventually moved on to a wholesale operation, selling clothing in the Balmes Street market in Barcelona. However, he soon discovered that retail was more profitable and opened the first Mango store in the city in 1984.

According to Forbes, his wealth was estimated at $4.5 billion (£3.6 billion), and at the time of his passing, he held the position of non-executive chairman of the company.

In 2023, Mango reported a revenue of €3.1 billion (£2.6 billion), with a third of its sales coming from online channels and operations in over 120 countries.

The brand launched its first store in the UK back in 1999, and today, it has over 60 locations throughout the country.

Spain's Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, honored Andic on social media, commending his dedication and entrepreneurial insight that elevated a Spanish brand to prominence in the global fashion industry.

On Saturday, the Federation of Jewish Communities in Spain expressed their profound shock over the sudden passing of a key member of their organization.

A representative stated that Andic played a vital role in the Jewish community in Barcelona and throughout Spain. He was described as a person of exceptional character, kind-hearted, and always ready to assist those who were less fortunate.

They remarked, “His many contributions have significantly progressed Spanish Judaism. The gap he leaves is impossible to fill.”