Founder of Mango Fashion Chain Isak Andic Dies in Tragic Accident near Barcelona

barcelona - Isak Andic, the 71-year-old billionaire and founder of the fashion chain Mango, tragically lost his life in a hiking accident outside Barcelona.

Isak Andic, the 71-year-old billionaire and founder of the fashion chain Mango, lost his life in a tragic accident on Saturday while hiking in a mountainous area outside Barcelona. According to El Pais, Andic was accompanied by his son and other family members when he fell 150 meters, leading to a large rescue operation. His body has since been recovered.

The Turkish-born businessman established Mango in Barcelona in 1984, and the chain is currently operational in 120 countries. Forbes estimated Andic's wealth at $4.5 billion.

Andic met his demise around 12:00 PM on Saturday in a mountain accident in Collbató, near Barcelona, after falling into a ravine near the Salnitre Caves, part of the Montserrat mountain range. These caves were formerly used to extract saltpeter and served as inspiration for Antoni Gaudí when designing the Sagrada Familia.

The family contacted the emergency number 112 around 12:30 PM on Saturday. The Medical Emergency System (SEM) dispatched a medical helicopter and an ambulance. Upon arrival at the scene, the doctors could only confirm the accidental death of the 71-year-old man who fell into the ravine en route to the Salnitre Caves.

Mango CEO Toni Ruiz expressed, "His death leaves a huge void, but we are all in some way his legacy and evidence of his exceptional achievements."

"It falls upon us, and this is the best tribute we can pay to Isak that we will fulfill, to ensure that Mango remains the project Isak aspired to and would be proud of," Ruiz added.

The President of the Catalan government, Salvador Illa Roca, expressed shock at the loss and described Andic as a "dedicated businessman" who "contributed to the greatness of Catalonia and its global representation."