Isak Andic: A Legacy in Fashion Cut Short by Tragedy
Isak Andic, the founder of the renowned fashion brand Mango, tragically passed away on December 14, 2024, following a hiking accident in the Montserrat mountains of Catalonia, Spain. The 71-year-old billionaire fell from a height of 150 meters during a family excursion, prompting an emergency call from his son shortly after the incident occurred. Despite the swift response from rescue teams, Andic was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving behind a significant legacy in the fashion industry.
A Visionary Leader Remembered
Andic's impact on the fashion world was profound; he founded Mango in 1984, opening the first store in Barcelona. Under his leadership, the brand expanded rapidly, becoming one of Europe's largest fashion retailers with over 2,800 stores worldwide and a presence in more than 120 countries. His strategic vision and commitment to quality helped Mango achieve record sales of €3.1 billion in 2023, marking a 15 percent growth from the previous year. In a statement, Mango's CEO, Toni Ruiz, expressed deep sorrow over Andic's passing, highlighting his inspiring leadership and the indelible mark he left on the company.
Tributes Pour In
The news of Andic's death has elicited heartfelt tributes from various sectors. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez praised his contributions to the fashion industry, stating that Andic's work had turned Mango into a global reference in fashion. Catalonia's regional president, Salvador Illa, also commemorated Andic's legacy, noting that he helped elevate Catalonia's profile on the world stage through his business acumen. As investigations into the circumstances of his death continue, the fashion community mourns the loss of a visionary leader who dedicated his life to the industry.