Gregg Kunes is a name synonymous with integrity, innovation, and community service in the American automotive industry. As the founder and CEO of Kunes Auto Group, he has built one of the most respected dealership networks in the Midwest. His journey from a small-town entrepreneur to a leading business figure showcases not only his business acumen but also his deep commitment to people, faith, and giving back.
This article explores Gregg Kunes’ life, career, and the values that have made him one of the most admired leaders in the automotive world.
Early Life and Background
Gregg Kunes grew up in the United States with a strong sense of community and family values. From an early age, he was fascinated by cars, entrepreneurship, and the idea of creating something meaningful. Those early interests laid the foundation for what would later become the Kunes Auto Group — a brand known for trust, honesty, and excellence in customer service.
Kunes often credits his upbringing and faith for shaping his work ethic and leadership style. He learned that success is not just about financial growth but about serving others, building relationships, and leaving a positive mark on the community.
The Birth of Kunes Auto Group
Gregg Kunes founded Kunes Auto Group in the early 1990s with a single dealership and a dream to redefine how people viewed car buying. His approach was simple but revolutionary: treat every customer like family.
Over the years, this philosophy helped his business grow from a small local operation into a thriving network of more than 40 dealerships across Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota.
Kunes Auto Group offers a wide range of vehicles — from major brands like Ford, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Buick to pre-owned certified cars. Each dealership shares the same core values: transparency, fairness, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction.
Leadership Philosophy: Faith, Family, and Fairness
At the heart of Gregg Kunes’ success is his leadership philosophy, grounded in faith and compassion. Unlike many business leaders focused solely on profit margins, Kunes prioritizes people — both employees and customers.
He believes that when you create a culture of honesty and care, success naturally follows. His dealerships emphasize teamwork, respect, and integrity. Employees are encouraged to grow professionally and personally, and customers are treated as long-term partners rather than one-time buyers.
Kunes often speaks about how his Christian faith guides his business decisions. For him, business is not just a career — it’s a mission to serve. His approach has earned Kunes Auto Group numerous awards and an outstanding reputation for ethics and excellence.
Community Involvement and Charitable Work
One of the most defining aspects of Gregg Kunes’ legacy is his dedication to philanthropy and community service.
Kunes is deeply involved in local charities, nonprofit organizations, and faith-based initiatives. Through the Kunes Family Foundation, he has supported a wide range of causes including housing, education, youth development, and disaster relief.
In particular, Kunes and his team have been instrumental in helping food pantries, schools, and local shelters. He believes that giving back to the community is not just a responsibility — it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Every year, Kunes Auto Group sponsors local events, sports programs, and fundraisers aimed at improving lives in the communities they serve. His generosity and compassion have inspired others in the business world to take similar initiatives.
A Reputation for Customer Satisfaction
Gregg Kunes built his empire by putting customer satisfaction above everything else. Kunes Auto Group’s success is driven by repeat customers and referrals, a testament to the trust and loyalty they’ve earned.
Each dealership under his leadership operates with the motto:
“Faith, Family, and Giving Back.”
This isn’t just a slogan — it’s a principle that guides every aspect of the business. From sales to service, the focus remains on delivering a transparent and friendly experience.
Customers appreciate the honesty and professionalism of Kunes’ team. Whether buying a new truck or servicing an old car, clients know they can expect fairness, quality, and respect — values that Gregg Kunes personally upholds.
Expanding Beyond Automotive Sales
Under Gregg Kunes’ leadership, Kunes Auto Group has expanded beyond just selling cars. The company has ventured into areas like RV dealerships, commercial vehicle sales, and service centers.
His forward-thinking mindset ensures that Kunes Auto Group adapts to changing market trends, including electric vehicles and digital transformation in car sales. Gregg has emphasized the importance of innovation and customer convenience, introducing online shopping tools, quick financing options, and exceptional after-sales support.
This adaptability has kept the company strong even during challenging economic times, including the COVID-19 pandemic. While many businesses struggled, Kunes Auto Group continued to grow, largely due to its loyal customer base and dedicated workforce.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Gregg Kunes and his dealerships have received numerous awards for performance, customer service, and community engagement.
Some notable recognitions include:
- Best Auto Dealer Awards from regional business journals
- Top Workplace designations for fostering a supportive environment
- Community Impact Awards for charitable contributions
These honors reflect the company’s dedication to excellence in every area — from sales and service to social responsibility.
Personal Life and Values
Despite his success, Gregg Kunes remains humble and grounded. He values his family deeply and often emphasizes the importance of balance between work, faith, and home life.
He is also a passionate mentor, helping young entrepreneurs and employees develop leadership skills. Through his example, Kunes teaches that real success comes from lifting others up, not just climbing to the top alone.
Faith continues to play a central role in his life. Gregg often shares his belief that every business decision should reflect moral integrity and compassion — values he learned early and continues to live by.
Legacy and Future Vision
Looking ahead, Gregg Kunes is focused on sustainable growth and innovation. His vision for the future of Kunes Auto Group includes expanding into new markets, embracing green technology, and continuing to make a positive social impact.
What truly sets him apart, however, is his unwavering belief that business should serve humanity. Gregg Kunes’ legacy is not just about selling cars — it’s about building trust, creating opportunities, and making the world a better place.
Under his leadership, Kunes Auto Group continues to thrive as a symbol of faith-based entrepreneurship and ethical success in America.
Conclusion
Gregg Kunes is more than a businessman — he is a leader with heart. Through hard work, vision, and compassion, he has transformed Kunes Auto Group into a brand that represents excellence, community, and integrity.
His story reminds us that true success isn’t measured by profits but by the lives we touch along the way. Whether through his dealerships, charitable efforts, or mentorship, Gregg Kunes continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs to lead with kindness, faith, and purpose.
