Isak Andic, founder of Mango fashion chain, dies in cave accident
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Isak Andic was photographed alongside Kate Moss during the launch of the Mango collection in Paris in 2011.
Isak Andic, the wealthy creator of the popular fashion brand Mango, tragically lost his life in an accident on Saturday while he was exploring caves close to Barcelona.
Spanish news sources revealed that the 71-year-old lost his life after tumbling into a ravine during a hike in caves located within a mountain range.
According to El Pais, Andic was accompanied by his son and other relatives when he collapsed, which led to a significant emergency response.
The Turkish entrepreneur established Mango alongside his brother, Nahman, in Barcelona back in 1984. Today, the brand has nearly 3,000 stores spread across 120 countries. According to Forbes, Andic's wealth is estimated at around $4.5 billion (£3.6 billion).
Andic is said to have tumbled into a 150-meter gorge while trekking in a part of the Montserrat mountains that is famous for its extensive caves.
Authorities received a call around 1:00 PM local time (12:00 PM GMT), and a helicopter along with a specialized mountain rescue team was dispatched to the location, according to El Pais.
Mango's CEO Toni Ruiz expressed in a statement: "His leaving creates a significant gap, but we all carry a piece of his legacy and can attest to his accomplishments in some way."
"It's our responsibility, and honoring Isak in this way is the greatest tribute we can give him. We will work to make sure that Mango evolves into the project Isak dreamed of and one that would make him proud."
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced that Andic passed away in an accident at the Salnitre de Collbató caves.
Sanchez expressed his admiration and appreciation for the outstanding work and visionary approach that have propelled this Spanish company to become a global leader in the fashion industry.
Photo credit: Getty Images
Andic and his family have been recognized by Forbes for possessing a fortune of $4.5 billion.
Salvador Illa Roca, the head of Catalonia's government, expressed his sadness over the recent passing and referred to Andic as a dedicated entrepreneur who played a significant role in elevating Catalonia's status and promoting it internationally.
Andic relocated to the Catalonia area in northeastern Spain during the 1960s along with his family and held the position of non-executive chairman of the company at the time of his passing. In 2023, Mango reported a revenue of €3.1 billion (£2.6 billion).
He was regarded as being in competition with Amancio Ortega, the founder of Zara and another wealthy figure in the Spanish fashion industry.
The brand gained significant recognition in the UK in 2011 when British supermodel Kate Moss was revealed as the new ambassador for Mango.
