Wilf Wikkerink, a prominent figure in the publishing world, has spent nearly two decades at the helm of Book Depot, steering the company to new heights through a combination of strategic growth, relationship building, and forward-thinking leadership. His journey from a dairy farm on Vancouver Island to becoming the CEO of a leading bargain book distributor is a story of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Born to Dutch immigrants, Wikkerink’s upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for perseverance. Growing up on a dairy farm provided an early education in discipline and responsibility, traits that have shaped his leadership style. These values laid the foundation for his approach to business, which emphasizes gratitude, adaptability, and optimism. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Dordt University, Wikkerink began his career at Legacy Entertainment. There, he and his business partner built a thriving budget music company, eventually selling it to a UK-based firm. This pivotal experience not only solidified his business acumen but also set the stage for his future successes.
In 2005, Wikkerink joined Book Depot, bringing with him a wealth of experience in business development and strategic growth. Under his leadership, the company has not only expanded its operations but also embraced technological advancements to streamline processes and enhance productivity. “Getting the right people on the team while investing heavily in improving operations through automation and technology has been a key focus,” Wikkerink shared. This approach has allowed Book Depot to remain competitive in an evolving industry while fostering a culture of innovation.
For Wikkerink, staying motivated during challenging times begins with a mindset of gratitude. “So often our first reaction is to ask why we have to go through a difficult situation,” he noted. “But starting from a posture of gratefulness helps ground you and puts you in a better mindset to deal with challenges.” This perspective has been instrumental in guiding his team through periods of uncertainty, including the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wikkerink believes that transparency and communication are critical for effective leadership during tough times. “Being honest about the situation, sharing stories of overcoming prior challenges, and discussing current options—even when all the answers aren’t clear—can help rally a team,” he explained. His ability to inspire and unite his team has been a cornerstone of Book Depot’s continued success.
In an industry that has faced significant disruptions, Wilf Wikkerink remains optimistic about the future of printed books. Despite the rise of e-books and the challenges posed by the pandemic, consumer demand for physical books has remained strong. “When the Kindle was introduced, many predicted the end of the physical book business,” Wikkerink said. “Instead, we used that time to investigate how we could embrace new technologies and innovations to strengthen our company.”
This forward-thinking mindset led Book Depot to embark on an automation journey that has transformed its operations. By leveraging technology to eliminate repetitive tasks, the company has enhanced efficiency and freed up employees to focus on higher-value work. Wikkerink sees this as a win-win, enabling greater productivity and higher wages for team members.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is another trend that excites Wikkerink for its potential to revolutionize the workplace. “AI can increase productivity by eliminating mundane, repetitive tasks, allowing people to focus on building organizations for the future,” he observed. While acknowledging the uncertainty that comes with any new technology, Wikkerink views AI as a powerful tool for driving innovation and efficiency.
Wikkerink’s approach to leadership emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people. “Investing in your team and their success is the key to long-term results,” he asserted. Reflecting on his career, he noted that one of his biggest lessons was recognizing the value of making strong hires early on. “Each time we brought in new talent, we saw results and wished we had done it sooner. It allowed me to spend more time strategizing for the future,” he added.
His advice for those starting out in any industry is straightforward: “Have a positive attitude, work hard, be true to your word, and be willing to learn and grow. These qualities will make you stand out and open up opportunities you never imagined.” This mindset not only applies to individual success but has also been a guiding principle in building the culture at Book Depot.
Book Depot’s location in the Niagara Region offers a unique blend of lifestyle benefits and career opportunities. Wikkerink highlights the area’s moderate climate, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene as key attractions. “Niagara is a great place to live and work. It’s ideal for those looking to leave the busyness of the big city while still offering excellent career opportunities,” he said.
The Niagara Region’s scenic parks, proximity to world-famous landmarks like Niagara Falls, and rich cultural offerings make it a desirable place to live. Additionally, its slower pace and lower cost of living compared to the Greater Toronto Area attract professionals seeking a better work-life balance. This has helped Book Depot recruit talented individuals who appreciate the quality of life the region provides.
This community-oriented perspective extends to Wikkerink’s personal life. Together with his wife Natalie, he has raised six children and now enjoys spending time with his growing family, which includes five grandchildren. From traveling and playing Spikeball to simply reading a good book, family time remains a priority for Wikkerink, reflecting his belief in the importance of maintaining strong personal connections.
Looking back on his career, Wilf Wikkerink cites the acquisition of Book Depot’s largest competitor as a defining moment. “This deal has been transformative for our business and will bring long-term benefits for our customers, vendors, and team members in both the USA and Canada,” he said. This achievement underscores his ability to identify opportunities for growth and act decisively to seize them.
Wikkerink’s leadership style is further reflected in the quotes that inspire him. From Jack Welch’s insights on visionary leadership to Ronald Reagan’s call to defend freedom, these principles resonate deeply with his approach to business and life. “Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately own the vision, and relentlessly drive it to completion,” one quote reads, encapsulating the essence of Wikkerink’s leadership philosophy.
As Book Depot continues to navigate the evolving landscape of the publishing industry, Wikkerink’s vision and leadership remain guiding forces. His commitment to innovation, team building, and strategic growth ensures that the company is well-positioned to thrive in the years to come. Through a focus on gratitude, resilience, and embracing change, Wikkerink’s legacy is one of transformation and growth—both for Book Depot and the industry at large.
