Isak Andic, the visionary founder of the global fashion brand Mango, passed away on December 14, 2024, at the age of 71. He died following a tragic accident while hiking with his family in the Montserrat mountains near Barcelona, Spain.
Early Life and Career
Born on October 20, 1953, in Istanbul, Turkey, to a Sephardic Jewish family, Andic moved to Barcelona in the 1960s. He began his entrepreneurial journey by selling hand-embroidered T-shirts, eventually opening shops around Barcelona and Madrid. In 1984, he consolidated his ventures under the brand name Mango, which he co-founded with his brother, Nahman Andic.
Building a Fashion Empire
Under Andic’s leadership, Mango evolved into a global fashion powerhouse, second only to Inditex’s Zara in Spain. The company expanded its presence to over 120 countries, operating more than 2,700 stores worldwide. Known for its stylish yet affordable clothing, Mango reported a turnover of €3.1 billion in 2023.
The Tragic Accident
While exploring the Salnitre Caves in the Montserrat mountain range, Andic slipped and fell over 100 meters into a ravine. Despite immediate efforts by his family and rescue teams, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His son, Jonathan Andic, who was present during the hike, reported the accident to emergency services.
Legacy and Tributes
At the time of his death, Andic was serving as the non-executive chairman of Mango and was considered the richest person in Catalonia, with an estimated net worth of $4.5 billion. His passing has elicited tributes from across the fashion industry and beyond. Mango’s CEO, Toni Ruiz, expressed deep regret, stating that Andic’s strategic vision and commitment were instrumental in shaping the company’s success.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez acknowledged the tragic accident, and Mango paid tribute to Andic by flying flags at half-mast at its headquarters.
Succession and Future of Mango
In recent years, Andic had been planning for succession, involving his three children—Jonathan, Judith, and Sarah—in the company’s governance. Jonathan, who has been actively involved in Mango’s operations, is expected to play a significant role in steering the company forward.
Isak Andic’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication transformed Mango into a globally recognized brand, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion industry. His legacy will continue to influence and inspire future generations in the world of fashion and business.
