Isak Andic, Mango Fashion Chain Founder, Dies in Cave Tragedy

Isak Andic, the billionaire founder of high street fashion chain Mango, tragically passed away in an accident on Saturday while exploring caves near Barcelona.

Spanish media reported the 71-year-old fell down a ravine to his death while hiking in caves that are part of a mountain range.

Andic was with his son and other family members when he fell, according to the El Pais newspaper, triggering a large emergency response.

The Turkish-born businessman founded Mango with the help of his brother, Nahman, in Barcelona in 1984 and the chain now operates almost 3,000 outlets in 120 countries. Forbes estimated Andic’s net worth to be $4.5bn (£3.6bn).

Andic reportedly fell down a 150-meter ravine while hiking in an area of the Montserrat mountains known for its deep caves.

Police were called at around 13:00 local time (12:00 GMT), and a helicopter and specialized mountain unit were sent to the scene, El Pais reported.

Mango CEO Toni Ruiz said in a statement: “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, and this is the best tribute we can make to Isak and which we will fulfill, to ensure that Mango continues to be the project that Isak aspired to and of which he would feel proud.”

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez confirmed Andic died in an accident at the Salnitre de Collbató caves.

“All my love and recognition for your great work and business vision, which has turned this Spanish firm into a world leader in fashion,” Sanchez said.

The president of Catalonia’s government, Salvador Illa Roca, expressed his sorrow at the loss and described Andic as a “committed businessman” who “contributed to making Catalonia great and projecting it to the world”.

Andic moved to northeastern Spain’s Catalonia region in the 1960s with his family and was a non-executive chairman of the company when he passed away. Mango had a turnover of €3.1bn (£2.6bn) in 2023.

He was seen as having a rivalry with Zara founder Amancio Ortega, another Spanish fashion billionaire.

The brand’s popularity in the UK was boosted in 2011 when British model Kate Moss was announced as the face of Mango.

The sudden and tragic death of Isak Andic has left a profound impact on the fashion industry and his community. His legacy as the founder of Mango will continue to inspire and shape the future of the brand he worked so hard to build.