Wilf Wikkerink has established himself as a leader with a knack for combining business acumen, technological foresight, and a strong sense of community. As the CEO of Book Depot, a thriving company in the printed book industry, he’s navigating challenges and reshaping the landscape. His approach to leadership and personal life reflects a deep commitment to values, family, and progress. He believes in balancing tradition with innovation, constantly seeking opportunities for improvement and growth.
Building Foundations in Business and Life
Wilf Wikkerink’s journey began on Vancouver Island, where he grew up on a dairy farm as the son of Dutch immigrants. Early lessons in discipline and hard work laid the foundation for his future success. These experiences instilled in him a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence that he has carried throughout his career. He later graduated from Dordt University in Sioux Center, Iowa, with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, setting the stage for a dynamic career marked by strategic decisions and transformative leadership.
Before joining Book Depot, Wilf Wikkerink partnered with Legacy Entertainment, a leading budget music company. Over nine years, he played a crucial role in building and eventually selling the business to a UK-based company. This milestone exemplified his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to create value in competitive markets. Since 2005, Wilf Wikkerink has been the driving force behind Book Depot, combining organic growth with strategic acquisitions to cement the company’s reputation as an industry leader. His leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to long-term success.
Leadership Through Gratitude and Vision
When asked how he stays inspired during challenging times, Wilf Wikkerink emphasizes the power of gratitude. “So often, our first reaction is to ask why we have to go through this difficult thing, rather than to understand what we might learn through the challenge,” he says. By focusing on optimism and honest communication, he’s able to inspire his team and create a resilient workplace culture. His approach involves turning obstacles into opportunities for growth and learning.
“As leaders, we need to be purveyors of hope,” Wilf Wikkerink explains. He stresses the importance of being transparent about challenges while sharing stories of triumph and maintaining open lines of communication. This emphasis on authenticity and optimism has helped him build trust and foster a culture of mutual support and collaboration within his organization.
Adapting to Industry Challenges
The printed book industry has faced numerous disruptions over the years, from the rise of e-books to the challenges of the pandemic. Yet Wilf Wikkerink remains steadfast in his belief that physical books will continue to hold their place in the market. His optimism is backed by a deep understanding of market trends and consumer behavior.
“When the Kindle came out in 2007, many predicted the end of physical books. But we chose to embrace new technologies and innovation,” he recalls. This forward-thinking approach led to investments in automation, allowing Book Depot to enhance operations and meet evolving consumer demands. His ability to anticipate and adapt to change has been a cornerstone of his leadership.
Wilf Wikkerink also highlights consumer loyalty to physical books, pointing out that even during the pandemic, most customers preferred to wait for physical copies rather than opt for e-books. He believes this trend underscores the enduring appeal of tangible books, from their texture to their collectible value. His insights into the emotional and sensory appeal of physical books have helped shape Book Depot’s strategy for success in a competitive market.
Addressing Workforce and Automation Challenges
Like many businesses reliant on production staff, Book Depot faces the challenge of attracting younger workers to its plants. Wilf Wikkerink acknowledges this shift but sees it as an opportunity to innovate and evolve.
“We must continue to find ways to automate as we grow,” he says. Automation not only boosts productivity but also enables higher wages for employees, creating a win-win scenario. His focus remains on equipping the company for long-term success by balancing technological advancements with employee satisfaction. By prioritizing innovation, he ensures that Book Depot remains competitive while providing meaningful opportunities for its workforce.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals
For those considering a career in the printed book industry or any field, Wilf Wikkerink’s advice is universal: “Have a positive attitude, work hard, be true to your word, and be willing to learn and grow.” These principles, he believes, set individuals apart in any workplace. His advice underscores the importance of resilience, integrity, and adaptability in achieving success.
His hiring philosophy also reflects these values. “Hire for attitude, train for skill,” he states, emphasizing that a good attitude and a willingness to learn outweigh pre-existing skills. This approach fosters a culture of growth and collaboration within his teams, enabling them to tackle challenges with confidence and creativity.
Family and Community
Outside of work, Wilf Wikkerink’s life is deeply rooted in family. Together with his wife Natalie, he has six children and five grandchildren. Family time often includes outdoor activities, travel, Spikeball games, and shared moments over books. His commitment to family mirrors his dedication to fostering strong, supportive relationships in all aspects of his life.
His appreciation for his community extends to his professional life as well. Based in the Niagara Region, Wilf Wikkerink praises its slower pace, moderate climate, and ample opportunities for work and leisure. The region’s unique combination of natural beauty and cultural richness aligns perfectly with his values.
“Niagara offers a lower cost of living and a great environment for raising a family,” he says. With its parks, wineries, and world-famous attractions like Niagara Falls, the region aligns with his vision of a balanced lifestyle. Wilf Wikkerink believes that a strong sense of place can significantly enhance both personal and professional fulfillment.
A Notable Career Achievement
One of Wilf Wikkerink’s proudest accomplishments is the acquisition of Book Depot’s largest competitor three years ago. This strategic move has already begun transforming the business, bringing long-term benefits to customers, vendors, and team members in both the United States and Canada. The acquisition reflects his strategic mindset and commitment to growth.
The acquisition exemplifies his belief in taking calculated risks and investing in growth opportunities. “Each time we hired for a new role or pursued a major project, we were rewarded with results and wished we had done it sooner,” he reflects. By seizing opportunities and investing in his team, he has ensured that Book Depot remains a leader in the industry.
Embracing AI and the Future
As a forward-thinking leader, Wilf Wikkerink is particularly excited about the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI). “AI can eliminate mundane, repetitive tasks, freeing people to focus on higher-value work,” he explains. While he acknowledges the challenges associated with emerging technologies, he views AI as a tool for enhancing productivity and building stronger organizations. His enthusiasm for AI underscores his commitment to innovation and progress.
Looking ahead, he envisions the printed book industry continuing to thrive. Publishers’ innovations, such as books with painted edges and unique designs, have made physical books more appealing as collectibles. These developments, coupled with automation, position Book Depot for sustained success. His strategic vision ensures that the company remains at the forefront of the industry.
Wisdom for Aspiring Leaders
If he could start his career over, Wilf Wikkerink says he would have surrounded himself with stronger hires earlier on. “Investing in your team and their success is the key to long-term results,” he emphasizes. By focusing on strategic hires, he’s been able to dedicate more time to working on the business than in it. His reflections highlight the importance of teamwork and delegation in achieving sustainable growth.
This wisdom underscores the importance of collaboration and forward planning for aspiring leaders. Wilf Wikkerink’s approach to leadership is a testament to the value of gratitude, integrity, and vision in achieving personal and professional success. His ability to inspire and lead by example has made a lasting impact on those around him.
Closing Thoughts
Wilf Wikkerink’s career reflects a commitment to both progress and principles. Whether navigating challenges in the printed book industry or spending time with his family, he embodies a balance of innovation and tradition. By staying true to his values and investing in his team, Wilf Wikkerink continues to lead with purpose and inspire those around him. His story serves as a reminder that leadership grounded in integrity and vision can achieve remarkable results, leaving a positive and lasting legacy.
By Chris Bates
