Gregg Kunes is a name that resonates with success in the automotive industry, particularly in the Midwest. As the president and CEO of Kunes Auto Group, a rapidly growing network of car dealerships across Illinois and Wisconsin, Kunes has built a reputation for transforming a single dealership into a thriving empire. His business acumen, focus on community values, and determination have made him one of the most successful auto dealership owners in the region.
This article dives deep into Gregg Kunes’ background, personal life, net worth, and the factors that contributed to the expansion of Kunes Auto Group into one of the largest privately held dealership networks in the Midwest.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Gregg Kunes’ story is a classic tale of small-town beginnings and entrepreneurial spirit. He was born in Illinois, growing up in a modest, working-class family. Like many business moguls, his early experiences shaped his understanding of hard work, perseverance, and the value of community. While Kunes did not initially set out to build an automotive empire, he was always interested in business and leadership.
Kunes’ entry into the automotive industry started with humble beginnings. He took a job in car sales as a young man, where he quickly learned the intricacies of the business. From inventory management to customer relations, Kunes mastered the fundamentals of running a dealership, but he wasn’t satisfied with just working for someone else. He had bigger ambitions to own and manage his own dealership.
In the early 1990s, Kunes took his first step toward fulfilling this dream by purchasing his first dealership in Delavan, Wisconsin. This marked the beginning of what would become Kunes Auto Group, a company that would grow exponentially over the next few decades. His ability to see potential where others saw obstacles became a hallmark of his success.
The Growth of Kunes Auto Group
Kunes Auto Group began as a single dealership but quickly expanded under Gregg Kunes’ leadership. His business philosophy centered around customer service, community involvement, and smart acquisitions. These guiding principles allowed Kunes to grow his business steadily, even during economic downturns that hit other auto dealerships hard.
Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, Kunes Auto Group expanded by acquiring struggling dealerships, revitalizing them, and turning them into profitable ventures. By focusing on customer experience and providing a wide range of vehicle options, Kunes earned a reputation for being one of the most trusted car dealership networks in the Midwest.
Today, Kunes Auto Group boasts over 40 dealerships spread across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa. The company sells both new and used cars, with a focus on popular brands like Chevrolet, Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. It also offers automotive services and parts through its network, creating a one-stop-shop for customers.
The success of Kunes Auto Group is largely attributed to Gregg Kunes’ leadership style, which emphasizes empowering employees, building strong relationships with customers, and giving back to the communities where his dealerships operate. Unlike other large dealership networks, Kunes Auto Group has maintained a family-oriented atmosphere, where customers feel valued and employees take pride in their work.
Community Engagement and Philanthropy
Gregg Kunes’ business philosophy goes beyond just selling cars. He has consistently emphasized the importance of giving back to the community, a value that is deeply ingrained in the culture of Kunes Auto Group. Over the years, the company has supported numerous charitable causes, including local schools, churches, and community organizations.
One of Kunes Auto Group’s most notable initiatives is its commitment to supporting food banks across the Midwest. In partnership with local organizations, the company has donated thousands of meals to families in need. Gregg Kunes and his team believe that corporate success should be shared with the community, and they have made it a priority to make a positive impact.
Kunes also sponsors local events, including sports teams and charity drives, to ensure that the communities where his dealerships operate thrive. His commitment to local engagement has earned him a great deal of respect and loyalty from customers who appreciate businesses that invest in the wellbeing of the people they serve.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
While Gregg Kunes is a public figure in the automotive world, he has managed to keep much of his personal life out of the spotlight. He is married and has children, though details about his family are not widely publicized. Despite his business success, Kunes has often described himself as a family man, placing great importance on balancing his professional ambitions with his personal life.
Kunes has often attributed his work ethic and values to his upbringing and the support of his family. He believes that family plays a crucial role in his success, and he has worked to ensure that Kunes Auto Group maintains a strong sense of family both in the workplace and in its dealings with customers.
Kunes’ family remains involved in the business, which has further cemented the company’s identity as a family-owned and operated enterprise. The involvement of his family in the day-to-day operations of the company ensures that his legacy will continue for future generations.
Net Worth: A Testament to Business Acumen
As of 2024, Gregg Kunes’ net worth is estimated to be between $50 million and $100 million, a figure that reflects the immense success of Kunes Auto Group. The company’s rapid expansion and its position as a leader in the Midwest automotive market have contributed significantly to Kunes’ wealth.
Much of his net worth is tied to the value of the company and its numerous dealerships. With over 40 dealerships generating revenue, Kunes Auto Group is a major player in the automotive sector, and its success shows no signs of slowing down. The company’s annual revenues are estimated to be in the hundreds of millions, and its continued growth has only bolstered Gregg Kunes’ financial standing.
In addition to his business income, Kunes likely holds investments in real estate and other assets, though specific details about his portfolio are not publicly available. His wealth allows him to live comfortably, but his focus remains on growing his business and making a positive impact on the communities he serves.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Like any business, Kunes Auto Group has faced its share of challenges over the years. The automotive industry is highly competitive, and economic fluctuations can significantly impact car sales. However, Kunes has proven himself to be a resilient businessman, capable of navigating tough times while continuing to expand his dealership network.
The COVID-19 pandemic posed a major challenge for car dealerships worldwide, as supply chain issues, temporary closures, and economic uncertainty affected the industry. Despite these obstacles, Kunes Auto Group managed to weather the storm, adapting to the new realities of the market by enhancing its online presence and offering more flexible customer service options.
Looking ahead, Kunes Auto Group is expected to continue its expansion in the Midwest, with a focus on acquiring new dealerships and strengthening its presence in existing markets. Gregg Kunes remains committed to his vision of providing excellent service and community engagement, ensuring that his company remains a trusted name in the automotive industry for years to come.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Gregg Kunes
Gregg Kunes’ story is one of hard work, vision, and an unwavering commitment to values that prioritize people over profits. From his humble beginnings as a car salesman to the CEO of a sprawling dealership empire, Kunes has built a legacy that goes beyond financial success. His ability to grow Kunes Auto Group into a dominant player in the Midwest automotive market while maintaining a focus on community and customer care is a testament to his leadership.
With a net worth that reflects his business acumen and a reputation for integrity, Gregg Kunes has earned his place among the top businessmen in the automotive industry. As Kunes Auto Group continues to grow, his legacy of service, philanthropy, and family values will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the communities he serves and the industry as a whole.
