Wilf Wikkerink: Steering Book Depot Toward Unprecedented Success
Wilf Wikkerink, CEO of the globally recognized Book Depot, comes from a family of Dutch immigrants and was raised on a dairy farm on Vancouver Island. His early years were shaped by hands-on farm work, where caring for animals and managing daily tasks instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility and a strong work ethic. These formative experiences laid the foundation for his disciplined and determined approach to business.
Wikkerink pursued his Bachelor of Business Administration at Dordt University in Sioux Center, Iowa, while also competing in men’s club volleyball.
He dedicated nine years to Legacy Entertainment, where he and his partner established a successful budget music company. Their collaborative efforts resulted in the company’s growth into one of the industry’s leading names, ultimately leading to its successful acquisition by a UK-based firm—a milestone achievement in their careers.
Since 2009, Wilf Wikkerink has served as the CEO of Book Depot, guiding the company with a clear vision and unwavering dedication. He actively upholds Book Depot’s mission, ensuring alignment among employees, customers, and suppliers. With a keen focus on recruiting top talent and leveraging cutting-edge automation and technology, he continues to propel the company toward greater success with passion and strategic leadership.
Book Depot’s Evolution Under Wilf Wikkerink’s Leadership
With Wilf Wikkerink at the helm, Book Depot has flourished, solidifying its position as a leading force in the industry. His strategic vision and leadership have driven the company’s growth, earning widespread recognition and respect.
Wikkerink is inspired by individuals who harness their talents to innovate, create, and make a meaningful impact. He has a deep admiration for visionaries who take bold leaps of faith, transforming challenges into opportunities and growing from mere survival to thriving success.
Wikkerink once came across a quote from an entrepreneur on a podcast that deeply resonated with him:
“The entrepreneur said something along the lines of, ‘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. 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.”
Book Depot has earned recognition as one of “Canada’s Best Managed Companies” and has been honored by Waterstone as one of “Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures” for three consecutive years (2021–2023).
The Best Managed program recognizes top-tier Canadian-owned and operated companies with revenues exceeding $50 million. Award winners exemplify excellence in strategy, innovation, operational capabilities, corporate culture, and financial performance, driving sustainable growth and industry leadership.
Book Depot offers its team members outstanding benefits, including learning and career growth opportunities through its own Book Depot University (BDU). The workplace thrives on a dynamic and engaging atmosphere, promoting innovation, inclusivity, and a strong sense of community.
Employees appreciate the opportunity to collaborate and connect through community events, milestone celebrations, and team gatherings, fostering a sense of camaraderie and enjoyment in their work.
Book Depot fosters a family-like environment built on the principle of “winning together” in both business and life. With a servant leadership approach, employees are empowered to lead by example, consistently upholding a standard of excellence and making a positive impact each day.
Book Depot: A Trailblazer in the Industry
As North America’s largest bargain book wholesaler and retailer, Book Depot thrives because of its dedicated people, who remain at the core of its success.
Driven by core values and a passion for success in both work and life, they continuously innovate and grow to deliver an exceptional customer experience with every product and service they offer.
At Book Depot, entrepreneurship isn’t just a concept—it’s the foundation of their success. By embracing technology and innovation, they strive for operational excellence, ensuring a consistently outstanding customer experience. Their commitment to growth and forward-thinking solutions sets them apart in the industry.
Based in Canada, Book Depot has been helping organizations save time and money for over 35 years as a leading wholesale bargain book supplier. With the largest selection of high-margin books, a dedicated team of over 400 professionals, and a 500,000-square-foot production facility, the company sets itself apart. Its advanced automated order fulfillment system ensures businesses can stock quality titles at a fraction of the cost, making Book Depot a trusted partner in the industry.
Book Depot Serves Customers Locally and Globally
Book Depot updates its website daily with hundreds of new arrivals across 50+ categories, ensuring options for organizations of all sizes. Bargain books are publisher overstock offered at significantly reduced prices, yet they remain brand-new, unread, and in excellent condition. This allows businesses to maximize their return on investment, often achieving double-margin profits.
“Despite what you may read or hear, books are still a great business, and people still are buying them,” said Wikkerink. “People enjoy cracking open a book and flipping through the pages.” Every book on Book Depot’s shelves is brand-new and unread, sourced directly from publishers looking to clear excess inventory—allowing the company to offer remarkable discounts.
Book Depot’s portfolio also includes its B2C platform: Book Outlet. A commitment to innovation and continuous growth has been key to its success, ensuring an exceptional customer experience at every level.
At the heart of their culture is a core purpose: Enchanting the Mind—one book at a time. Their commitment to making books accessible to everyone stems from a deep belief in the power of reading, shaping every aspect of their operations.
“As we see continued consolidation in the publishing business, it is also becoming clearer that publishers require large partners that can provide turnkey inventory solutions for their remainders, overstocks and returns,” said Wilf.
Wilf Wikkerink: Family Roots and Background
Beyond his role as CEO of Book Depot, Wilf Wikkerink cherishes his life as a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He and his wife, Natalie, have raised six children—two sons and four daughters—some of whom have started families of their own, bringing even more joy to their lives.
The Wikkerink family loves spending time outdoors, whether skiing, playing Spikeball, or getting lost in the pages of a great book.
Wilf Wikkerink’s leadership—both as a family man and CEO of Book Depot—embodies dedication, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His journey from a dairy farm on Vancouver Island to leading a globally recognized company is a testament to the power of perseverance and vision. Under his guidance, Book Depot continues to thrive in the ever-evolving publishing industry, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. His leadership not only drives the company’s success but also ensures a strong and promising future for its stakeholders.