Isak Andic Ermay: The Visionary Founder of Mango Passes Away in Tragic Accident

Isak Andic Ermay, the renowned founder and chairman of the global fashion brand Mango, tragically passed away on Saturday, December 14, 2024, in a hiking accident near Barcelona, Spain. Andic, who was 71 years old, left an indelible mark on the fashion industry and will be deeply missed by his family, colleagues, and the millions of customers who have come to adore the Mango brand.

Early Life and Entrepreneurial Journey

Born in 1953 in Istanbul, Turkey, to a Sephardic Jewish family, Andic's life was marked by early entrepreneurial spirit and a penchant for innovation. In 1969, his family emigrated to Barcelona, Spain, where he and his brother Nahman began their journey in the fashion industry by selling hand-embroidered T-shirts and clogs. This humble start laid the foundation for what would become a global fashion empire.

The Birth of Mango

In 1984, Andic, along with his brother Nahman and fellow entrepreneur Enric Cusí, consolidated their various retail ventures under a single brand, which Andic named "Mango" after tasting the fruit during a trip to the Philippines. The first Mango store opened on Paseo de Gracia in Barcelona, a location that would become synonymous with the brand's chic and stylish offerings.

Global Expansion and Business Acumen

Under Andic's visionary leadership, Mango expanded rapidly, becoming one of Europe's leading fast-fashion brands. By 2017, Mango had a presence in over 100 countries, with annual revenues exceeding £2 billion. As of 2023, the brand boasted over 2,700 stores in 120 markets worldwide, with a record sales figure of 3.1 billion euros. Andic's business acumen extended beyond Mango; he was also a significant shareholder and director of Banco Sabadell, one of Spain's major banks.

Personal Life and Legacy

Andic was a resident of Barcelona and was known for his strong family ties. He was divorced from Neus Raig Tarragó, with whom he had three children: Jonathan, Judith, and Sarah. Jonathan Andic, who was named his successor in 2012, is expected to continue his father's legacy at the helm of Mango. Andic was also recognized for his contributions to society, receiving the Kingdom of Spain Award for Business Excellence and a knighthood from France in 2018.

The Tragic Accident

On the fateful day of December 14, Andic was on a hiking tour with his family in the Saltpeter Caves of Collbató, a popular excursion route in Montserrat, Catalonia. During the outing, he slipped and fell 150 meters, resulting in fatal injuries. Despite immediate alerts to emergency services, rescue efforts were unable to save him, and his body was recovered later in the afternoon.

Tributes and Remembrance

The news of Andic's passing has sent shockwaves through the business and fashion communities. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez paid tribute to Andic on social media, praising his "hard work and business vision that transformed a Spanish brand into a global fashion leader." The fashion world mourns the loss of a visionary who not only built a brand but also left a lasting impact on the industry.

Isak Andic Ermay's legacy will continue to inspire and influence the fashion world, and his memory will be cherished by all those whose lives he touched through his remarkable journey and achievements.