Wilf Wikkerink, the CEO of internationally acclaimed Book Depot, is the proud son of Dutch immigrants who was raised on a dairy farm on Vancouver Island. Growing up, he developed a strong work ethic by caring for animals and handling early responsibilities, which laid the foundation for his disciplined and determined approach to business.
Wikkerink later attended Dordt University in Sioux Center, Iowa, where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration while playing men’s club volleyball.
His professional career began with nine successful years at Legacy Entertainment, where he and his partner built a flourishing budget music company. Their efforts culminated in the sale of one of the industry’s leading budget music companies to a UK-based firm, marking a significant achievement.
Today, Wilf Wikkerink serves as CEO of Book Depot, a role he has held since 2009. He champions the company’s mission to serve all stakeholders—employees, customers, and suppliers—with a focus on assembling top talent, enhancing operations, and driving growth through innovative technology and automation.
Wilf Wikkerink’s Leadership Elevates Book Depot
Under Wikkerink’s leadership, Book Depot has not only survived but flourished, becoming a prominent player in the book industry. His strategic insights and vision have elevated the company, earning widespread recognition.
Wikkerink is particularly inspired by those who use their talents to innovate and create impact, especially those who take leaps of faith to turn dreams into reality. Reflecting on a quote from an entrepreneur that resonated with him, Wikkerink recalls: “The entrepreneur said something like, ‘When someone tells me that is the craziest idea I’ve heard of, then I know I’m on to something!’ This really hit home for me, as we’ve often ventured into uncharted waters, doing things others said couldn’t be done. Are we always successful? No, but those bumps along the way only make us stronger.”
Book Depot has been named one of “Canada’s Best Managed Companies” and has earned the title of “Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures” by Waterstone for three consecutive years (2021-2023).
The “Best Managed” award highlights Canadian-owned companies with revenues exceeding $50 million that demonstrate excellence in leadership, innovation, culture, and financial growth.
Employees at Book Depot benefit from opportunities like Book Depot University (BDU) for career development, and the workplace culture promotes innovation and inclusivity, creating an upbeat and supportive environment.
The company’s family atmosphere is rooted in a shared commitment to “winning together,” both in life and business. Book Depot embraces servant leadership, empowering employees to lead by example and setting high standards of excellence.
Book Depot: An Industry Innovator
As North America’s largest bargain book wholesaler and retailer, Book Depot places people at the heart of its operations. Driven by core values and a passion for results, the company continually innovates to deliver exceptional customer experiences.
At Book Depot, the entrepreneurial spirit is more than a buzzword—it’s a key to their success. By leveraging technology and automation, they consistently strive for operational excellence and innovation.
Book Depot has been a trusted partner for over 35 years, providing a vast selection of high-margin books at affordable prices. With a state-of-the-art, 500,000-square-foot production facility and over 400 team members, the company stands out thanks to its advanced automated order fulfillment system, ensuring businesses get quality books at a fraction of the cost.
Serving Customers Locally and Globally
Book Depot adds hundreds of new arrivals daily, offering over 50 categories, so there’s always something for every organization. Their selection includes new, unread books in excellent condition, allowing businesses to achieve significant returns on investment.
“Books are still a great business, and people are still buying them,” says Wikkerink. “People enjoy the tactile experience of flipping through pages.” All Book Depot’s offerings are new, unread books sold in bulk at reduced prices, thanks to partnerships with publishers managing excess inventory.
The Book Depot portfolio also includes their B2C website, Book Outlet. Innovation and growth are central to the company’s success, as they consistently strive to enchant the mind—one book at a time.
“As consolidation continues in the publishing industry, it’s clear that publishers need large partners like us to provide turnkey inventory solutions for remainders, overstocks, and returns,” says Wikkerink.
Wilf Wikkerink’s Personal Journey
Outside of his professional role, Wilf Wikkerink enjoys life as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He and his wife, Natalie, have raised six children, some of whom are now married and have their own families.
The Wikkerink family cherishes outdoor activities like skiing and playing Spikeball, as well as the simple joy of reading a good book.
Wilf Wikkerink’s leadership, both as a family man and as CEO of Book Depot, reflects his dedication, innovation, and commitment to excellence. His journey from Vancouver Island’s dairy farms to the helm of a global company illustrates the transformative power of hard work and vision. Under his guidance, Book Depot continues to adapt to the evolving publishing industry, solidifying its position as a leader and inspiring others in both literature and commerce.
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