Wilf Wikkerink, the CEO of the globally recognized Book Depot, has a story rooted in perseverance and hard work. The proud son of Dutch immigrants, he spent his early years on a dairy farm on Vancouver Island. This upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic, as he learned responsibility at an early age through farm chores and caring for animals. These foundational lessons became the bedrock of his disciplined approach to leadership.
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Wikkerink pursued higher education at Dordt University in Sioux Center, Iowa, where he played men’s club volleyball and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree.
His career trajectory took him to Legacy Entertainment, where he and his partner built a thriving budget music business over nine years. Their efforts culminated in the successful sale of one of the industry’s leading budget music companies to a UK-based firm—a significant milestone in his professional journey.
Since 2009, Wilf Wikkerink has led Book Depot as CEO, driving the company’s mission forward for employees, customers, and suppliers alike. His leadership prioritizes assembling top-tier talent and optimizing operations through automation and technology, ensuring continuous innovation and growth.
Book Depot’s Transformation Under Wilf Wikkerink’s Leadership
Under Wikkerink’s leadership, Book Depot has flourished, earning industry-wide recognition. His strategic vision has not only propelled the company to new heights but also solidified its reputation as a leader in the book wholesale industry.
Inspired by innovators and risk-takers, Wikkerink admires individuals who turn bold ideas into reality. A quote from an entrepreneur on a podcast deeply resonated with him:
“When someone tells me that is the craziest idea I’ve heard of, then I know I’m on to something!”
This mindset reflects Book Depot’s approach—embracing challenges, navigating uncharted waters, and defying conventional limitations. While not every risk leads to success, Wikkerink firmly believes that resilience through setbacks strengthens both businesses and leaders.
Book Depot’s achievements include being named one of “Canada’s Best Managed Companies” and earning Waterstone’s “Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures” title for three consecutive years (2021-2023). The Best Managed program recognizes exceptional Canadian-owned businesses generating over $50 million in revenue, excelling in leadership, innovation, and sustainable growth.
The company fosters a vibrant, inclusive work culture where employees enjoy career development opportunities through Book Depot University (BDU). The workplace is engaging and energetic, emphasizing teamwork, innovation, and a spirit of “winning together.” Employees actively participate in community initiatives, recognition events, and celebrations, reinforcing a culture of collaboration and service.
Book Depot: A Game-Changer in the Industry
As North America’s largest bargain book wholesaler and retailer, Book Depot stands out due to its strong values and commitment to excellence. Innovation and operational efficiency remain at the core of its success, allowing the company to consistently deliver an exceptional customer experience.
An entrepreneurial spirit drives Book Depot’s operations, where technology is embraced as a tool for growth and transformation. This commitment to progress ensures that the company remains at the forefront of the industry.
With over 35 years of experience, Book Depot has saved organizations significant costs by providing access to a vast selection of high-margin books. Operating from a 500,000-square-foot production facility, the company’s 400+ team members work seamlessly with state-of-the-art automated order fulfillment systems, ensuring businesses can stock quality books at competitive prices.
Book Depot’s Global Reach and Customer Commitment
Book Depot continuously updates its website with hundreds of new book arrivals daily, spanning 50+ categories. Their bargain books, sourced from publishers’ excess inventory, are new, unread, and in excellent condition, offering businesses an opportunity for high-margin returns.
“Despite what you may read or hear, books are still a great business, and people still are buying them,” says Wikkerink. Book Depot ensures customers receive high-quality books at unbeatable prices, thanks to its strategic relationships with publishers.
The company’s B2C platform, Book Outlet, also plays a vital role in its success. By maintaining a culture of innovation and growth, Book Depot continues to elevate the customer experience while staying true to its mission:
Enchanting the Mind – One Book at a Time.
“As we see continued consolidation in the publishing industry, it is also becoming clearer that publishers need large partners that can provide turnkey inventory solutions for their remainders, overstocks, and returns,” Wikkerink explains.
Wilf Wikkerink: A Leader in Business and Family
Beyond his professional role, Wilf Wikkerink is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He and his wife, Natalie, have raised six children—two sons and four daughters—many of whom are now married with families of their own.
The Wikkerink family cherishes time spent outdoors, whether skiing, playing Spikeball, or enjoying a good book together.
His leadership—both in business and family life—is marked by dedication, vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. From his early days on a dairy farm to leading a globally recognized company, Wikkerink’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation.
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Under his guidance, Book Depot continues to evolve, adapting to the dynamic publishing landscape while maintaining its core values of service, innovation, and integrity. With a future built on resilience and forward-thinking strategies, the company remains a leader in the literary world—ensuring books remain accessible, affordable, and relevant in an ever-changing market.
