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Jonathan Andic, the son of Mango founder Isak Andic, has temporarily stepped down as vice chairman of the global fashion company after being accused of homicide in connection with his father’s death during a hiking trip near Barcelona.
The announcement was made Tuesday through an open letter in which Jonathan Andic said he was leaving his position to focus entirely on defending his innocence during the ongoing judicial investigation.
The case has generated intense attention across Spain’s business and fashion sectors because of Mango’s status as one of Europe’s largest fashion retailers and the Andic family’s longstanding leadership role within the company.
Jonathan Andic was arrested last week as part of an investigation led by a court in Martorell, near Barcelona, examining the circumstances surrounding the death of Isak Andic, who died after falling from a cliff during a hiking excursion in the Montserrat mountain area in December 2024.
According to investigators, only father and son were present at the time of the incident.
Jonathan Andic Says He Is Stepping Away to Focus on His Defense
In his open letter, Jonathan Andic strongly rejected the allegations against him and described the homicide accusation as “unjust and unfounded.”
He said the investigation and public scrutiny had created “a narrative of presumed guilt that does not reflect reality.”
The Mango executive said the legal process now requires his full attention.
Jonathan Andic added that he was stepping aside “with sadness” but believed it was “the best for the company and for me.”
Despite temporarily leaving his positions as vice chairman and board member, he said he would continue participating in other family, business, and social projects connected to the Andic family.
Investigation Into Isak Andic’s Death Continues
The death of Isak Andic shocked Spain’s business community when it occurred on December 14, 2024.
The billionaire entrepreneur founded Mango in Barcelona in 1984 and transformed the company into one of the world’s most recognizable fast-fashion brands, with stores operating across dozens of countries.
Initially, the incident was widely viewed as a tragic accident after Isak Andic fell from a cliff during a hike in the Montserrat mountains near Barcelona.
However, speculation surrounding the circumstances of his death intensified in the months that followed as investigators continued examining evidence and witness testimony.
Last week, Jonathan Andic was formally accused of homicide and briefly detained before being released on bail after posting one million euros ordered by the judge overseeing the case.
According to Spanish media reports, Andic answered questions only from his legal team during his court appearance. His lawyers are reportedly preparing an appeal against the judicial order connected to the homicide accusation.
Mango Faces Growing Corporate Pressure
The investigation has placed significant pressure on Mango and its leadership during a critical moment for the company.
Jonathan Andic had already stepped back from executive responsibilities in June 2025, including his role overseeing Mango Man, the company’s menswear division. However, he remained vice chairman and a member of Mango’s board of directors until this latest announcement.
His arrest reignited questions about whether he could continue holding senior leadership positions while facing criminal accusations.
Reports indicate that Mango’s internal governance and ethics policies do not specifically address criminal investigations involving board members.
Sources close to Mango’s board described Jonathan Andic’s decision to step aside as an act of “responsibility, generosity and respect” toward the company and its legacy.
The company confirmed that the positions he vacated will remain open because the move is considered temporary.
Mango and the Andic Family Publicly Back Jonathan Andic
Mango responded to the announcement with a public statement expressing support for Jonathan Andic while emphasizing the company’s operational stability.
Toni Ruiz, Mango’s chairman and chief executive officer, said the company maintains “maximum respect, understanding and support” for Andic.
According to Mango, board members unanimously supported Ruiz’s statement and expressed confidence that the judicial process would eventually be resolved favorably.
The Andic family also reaffirmed its support for Jonathan Andic and his decision to temporarily step away from corporate responsibilities.
“The family wishes to reiterate once again its full confidence in Jonathan’s innocence,” family representatives said.
Jonathan Andic Criticizes “Distorted” Public Narrative
In his letter, Jonathan Andic accused authorities and public commentary of creating a misleading narrative surrounding the investigation.
“A public narrative has been constructed based on a partial, decontextualized and distorted view that has created a perception of guilt disconnected from reality,” he wrote.
He acknowledged that reversing that perception would require “time, effort and intense dedication.”
Jonathan Andic also spoke emotionally about his relationship with his father, saying their family bond had always been rooted in affection and mutual respect despite occasional difficulties.
A Defining Moment for Mango
The investigation represents one of the most serious crises in Mango’s recent history.
Although the company has emphasized continuity and governance stability, the legal investigation involving the founder’s son risks creating reputational challenges for a brand with a major international presence.
Mango has expanded aggressively in recent years and strengthened its position in the competitive global fashion market, competing with major retailers across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Industry analysts say Mango’s ability to maintain operational stability while distancing its corporate strategy from the legal controversy will be closely watched by investors and competitors.
For now, Jonathan Andic says his priority remains proving his innocence.
“With the full support of my family and those around me, I face this situation with calmness and conviction,” he wrote. “The facts will clearly demonstrate my innocence, and the truth will ultimately prevail.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Jonathan Andic and the Mango Investigation
Why did Jonathan Andic step down from Mango?
Jonathan Andic said he temporarily stepped down to focus on defending himself during the homicide investigation linked to his father’s death.
Who was Isak Andic?
Isak Andic was the founder of Mango, one of Europe’s largest fast-fashion companies.
What happened to Isak Andic?
Isak Andic died after falling from a cliff during a hiking trip near Barcelona in December 2024.
Is Jonathan Andic still involved with Mango?
Jonathan Andic has temporarily left his positions as vice chairman and board member but said he will remain connected to family business projects.
What is Mango?
Mango is a global fast-fashion retailer founded in Barcelona in 1984.
Information Source:
https://elpais.com/espana/catalunya/
Photo Attribution:
Mango Mannheim (O6) by Wegavision, Mannheim, Germany — public domain (CC0 1.0). Wikimedia Commons: https://w.wiki/PPBK
