In a shocking turn of events, Isak Andic, the visionary founder of the renowned fashion giant Mango, has passed away. The company confirmed this heartbreaking news in a solemn statement. Andic, who was 71 years old according to Forbes, met with a tragic fate on Saturday, December 14. The statement released by Mango CEO Toni Ruiz did not disclose the exact cause of his death.

An Indelible Legacy

Ruiz expressed deep regret in the statement, saying, "It is with deep regret that we announce the unexpected death of Isak Andic, our non-executive chairman and founder of Mango, in an accident that occurred this Saturday. Isak has been an exemplary figure for all of us. He dedicated his entire life to Mango, leaving an indelible mark through his strategic vision, inspiring leadership, and unwavering commitment to values that he instilled in our company. His legacy reflects the achievements of a business project marked by success, as well as his remarkable human qualities, his closeness, and the care and affection he always had and conveyed to the entire organization."

The Accident at Collbató Caves

Regional police in Catalonia informed CNN on Saturday that during the afternoon, a 71-year-old man fell more than 320 feet down a ravine near Barcelona at the Collbató caves of Salnitre. A source confirmed to the outlet that the victim was indeed Isak Andic, and the police retrieved a body. Citing Spanish media, specifically the El País newspaper, the BBC reported that Andic met his tragic end while hiking the mountain range and was accompanied by his son and other family members at the time of the fall. Police were called to the scene around 1 p.m. local time.

Early Years and Business Success

Isak Andic opened his first store in Barcelona in 1984. Since then, Mango has flourished, opening 2,100 stores in 110 countries. This remarkable growth has made Mango one of the leading international brands in the fashion industry. Last month, the company announced that it had 40 stores open in the US and planned to expand by more than 20 stores in 2025. His business acumen and determination have truly transformed Mango into a global fashion powerhouse.

Reactions and Tributes

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez reacted to Andic's death on X (formerly Twitter) with a translated post, expressing his condolences to the family following the "tragic death in an accident in the Salnitre de Collbató caves." He wrote, "All my love and recognition for your great work and business vision, which has turned this Spanish firm into a world leader in fashion." Catalonia's president, Salvador Illa, also shared a statement on X, stating that Andic was "a committed businessman who, with his leadership, has contributed to making Catalonia great and projecting it to the world." His impact on the Catalan and global fashion sector is immeasurable. "He leaves an indelible mark on the Catalan and global fashion sector," Illa's translated post reads. "My condolences and those of the entire Government to family, friends and the Mango team."Isak Andic's death leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. His contributions to the fashion industry and his impact on the lives of many will be remembered forever. Mango will continue to carry on his legacy and strive for greater success in the years to come.