The founder of the globally renowned fashion brand Mango, Isak Andic, tragically passed away on Saturday following a mountain accident near Barcelona, Spain. The 71-year-old businessman reportedly slipped and fell over 100 metres while hiking with his family at the Montserrat caves, according to police officials.
Mango’s CEO, Toni Ruiz, paid tribute to Andic, saying, “His departure leaves a huge void, but all of us are, in some way, his legacy and the testimony of his achievements. It is up to us to ensure Mango continues to be the project that Isak was ambitious and proud of.”
Who Was Isak Andic?
Born in 1953 in Istanbul, Turkey, Isak Andic moved to Catalonia, Spain, with his family in the 1960s. He was an entrepreneur at heart, starting small by selling clothes to friends and local businesses. Andic’s vision of fashion as accessible, modern, and stylish led him to establish Mango in 1984. What began as a single store in Barcelona grew into a global fashion empire.
Achievements and Growth of Mango
Isak Andic’s leadership transformed Mango into one of the most recognized fashion brands worldwide. By 2023, Mango reported an impressive turnover of 3.1 billion euros, with 33% of its revenue coming from online sales. The company now has a strong presence in over 120 countries and remains a key player in the international fashion industry.
Andic’s business acumen and sharp eye for fashion put him in direct competition with Amancio Ortega, the founder of Inditex, which owns Zara. Both men were credited with shaping Spain’s influence in the global fast-fashion market.
Forbes estimated Isak Andic’s net worth at $4.5 billion, showcasing his success and legacy as a visionary entrepreneur. At the time of his death, he held the position of non-executive chairman of Mango, stepping back from active management while still guiding the company’s direction.
A Personal Loss and Industry Impact
The sudden passing of Isak Andic is a significant loss for the fashion world and Spain’s business community. Colleagues, family members, and admirers remember him as a man who combined innovation with timeless design, bringing Mango to millions of wardrobes worldwide.
Mango’s future remains in the hands of its dedicated team, as they aim to uphold the ambitious vision and values Andic instilled. His journey from a small shop owner to the founder of a fashion giant will inspire generations of entrepreneurs globally.
Andic leaves behind not just a thriving business but a legacy of dedication, innovation, and perseverance in the fashion industry.