Wilf Wikkerink and the Rise of Book Depot

Wilf Wikkerink, the CEO of Book Depot, one of North America’s top book wholesalers, embodies the essence of entrepreneurship and servant leadership. His leadership at Book Depot is characterized by a hands-on approach to problem-solving and an unwavering commitment to the growth and development of his team. Under his guidance, Book Depot has expanded its market presence and fostered a culture of constant improvement and innovation.

“I joined the company in 2005, and since then, I’ve been dedicated to sharing Book Depot’s vision with our employees, customers, and suppliers,” Wikkerink said. “Building strong, lasting relationships is important to me, both locally and abroad. I enjoy the challenges and rewards of growing our business, whether through organic growth or acquisitions. At Book Depot, we focus on bringing together the right people and investing in technology and automation to continuously improve our operations.”

Wikkerink’s journey began on a family dairy farm on Vancouver Island, where he was raised by Dutch immigrant parents. This early upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and the value of building lasting relationships—principles that have guided him in his business endeavors.

After high school, Wilf Wikkerink attended Dordt University in Iowa, where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration, which laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey.

Wilf and his wife, Natalie, are parents to six children—two sons and four daughters—and are also blessed with grandchildren. Together, the family enjoys outdoor activities such as skiing, playing Spikeball, and reading books.

Wilf Wikkerink’s Entrepreneurial Ventures and Lessons Learned
Before joining Book Depot in 2005, Wikkerink spent nine years as a Partner and Operations Director at Legacy Entertainment, a role that sharpened his business management skills.

“My business partner and I built a successful budget music company, which we eventually sold to a UK-based company,” Wikkerink explained. “This experience taught me valuable lessons in entrepreneurship and business management.”

These lessons proved to be invaluable when Wikkerink transitioned to Book Depot, where he has served as CEO for the past 15 years.

Wilf Wikkerink’s Vision for Book Depot
When Wikkerink joined Book Depot, the company had been in the wholesale bargain book industry for over two decades. He focused on promoting the company’s vision, cultivating strong relationships, and driving growth through strategic acquisitions and operational improvements.

“At Book Depot, we understand that what doesn’t break you can make you stronger,” Wikkerink shared. “Our journey toward becoming Canada’s Best Managed Company has been defined by our unwavering commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.”

Book Depot’s Investment in the Customer Experience
Book Depot has invested millions of dollars over many years to enhance the customer experience. The company operates a 500,000-square-foot production facility using cutting-edge automated technology to fulfill orders.

The company continues to improve its website to offer a seamless customer experience. Several years ago, the website was redesigned to function smoothly on all devices, ensuring a great shopping experience for customers, whether they’re shopping from home, the office, or on the go. “If you haven’t been on our website in the last three years, please take a look,” Wikkerink encourages. “I know you’ll be impressed with what you see and the ease with which you can shop for bargain books from the convenience of your office, home, or on the go.”

In addition to technology upgrades, Book Depot has invested in its sales and customer service teams. “Today, our sales team has a combined experience in the book industry of over 80 years, and along with that comes a wealth of product knowledge,” Wikkerink said. “Whether you prefer to shop online or over the phone, our sales team is ready to assist you and tailor a list of products to meet your specific needs.”

The company has also enhanced its customer service department, adding new team members and offering them the training needed to provide excellent support. “We have continued investing in the sales team by launching Salesforce. This will give our salespeople additional tools to grow and maintain excellent customer relations,” Wikkerink added.

Wikkerink’s Zeal to Embrace Challenges and Drive Innovation at Book Depot
Wikkerink’s entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to take on challenges have been essential to Book Depot’s success. While listening to the “How I Built This” podcast with Guy Raz, he was inspired by an entrepreneur who said, “When someone tells me that is the craziest idea I’ve heard of, then I know I’m on to something!”

“That really resonated with me as many times in our business, we have sailed into uncharted waters and done things that others said could not be done,” Wikkerink explained. “Are we always successful? No, but you cannot continue to build a business without some bumps and bruises along the way—and those bruises usually make you stronger.”

Whether navigating industry shifts, tackling ambitious automation projects, or exploring new market opportunities, Wikkerink and his team have consistently demonstrated their ability to adapt and thrive.

Cultivating a Winning Culture Through Servant Leadership
Ensuring employees feel valued and fostering an environment that welcomes new ideas from everyone has been one of Wikkerink’s primary goals at Book Depot. The company’s employees enjoy exceptional benefits, including learning and career development opportunities through the company’s Book Depot University (BDU).

Book Depot’s culture isn’t just about business; it’s about family. Wikkerink’s dedication to creating an environment that values every employee and welcomes fresh ideas has fostered a sense of belonging among the team. This commitment to building a positive culture has resonated deeply with employees, who often describe the company as a ‘family atmosphere.’

Wikkerink’s Faith and Stance for Book Depot’s Future
Though the book industry has evolved, book lovers still cherish the physical book. As e-book sales have declined and independent bookstores are making a comeback, Wikkerink sees a significant opportunity for bookstore owners in the bargain book sector.

“There is continued good news in the industry about printed book sales being up, the decline of e-book sales, and the overall positive outlook by independent booksellers,” Wikkerink shared. “We are hearing encouraging reports from many of our customers that business is growing, and their customers are delighted to have a local bookstore where they can browse, shop, and generally spend a few hours ‘hanging out.’”

Wikkerink’s faith in the lasting appeal of physical books, his strategic vision, and his commitment to cultivating a winning culture position Book Depot for ongoing success. By investing in employees, technology, and operational excellence, Wikkerink ensures that Book Depot remains a leader in the book industry.

“We are confident in the future of books and the book industry, but ultimately, our trust and faith lie not in the things we possess, but in our Heavenly Father who guides and directs us,” Wikkerink concluded.

Wilf Wikkerink’s journey from a dairy farm to the CEO of Book Depot illustrates the power of entrepreneurship, servant leadership, and a relentless pursuit of innovation. As he continues to lead the company toward new heights, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring business leaders everywhere.

“I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had throughout my life and career,” Wikkerink said. “I look forward to continuing to lead Book Depot, working with our fantastic team, and serving our customers and suppliers to the best of my ability.”