Kunes Auto & RV Earns Top 50 Dealer Award with Values-Driven Model

By Amanda Clark

DELAVAN, Wis. – January 21, 2026 – Kunes Auto & RV Group, a family-owned dealership network known for its rapid Midwestern expansion, has been named to the 2025 RVBusiness Top 50 Dealer Awards. The prestigious honor recognizes the most well-run and respected RV dealerships in North America, placing Kunes in an elite group celebrated for operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

The award was presented at a gala ceremony during the annual RV Dealers Association (RVDA) Convention/Expo at the Paris Las Vegas, a premier event for the industry. For Kunes, the recognition is more than a trophy; it's a validation of a business philosophy that intertwines corporate growth with deeply held community values.

A Benchmark of Excellence in a Fluctuating Market

Securing a spot on the RVBusiness Top 50 list is a significant achievement in any year, but it carries particular weight in the current economic climate. The RV industry, after experiencing a historic surge during the pandemic, has been navigating a period of normalization marked by fluctuating demand, rising interest rates, and economic uncertainty. In this environment, operational efficiency and customer loyalty are more critical than ever.

The selection process for the Top 50 award is notoriously rigorous. A panel of independent industry experts evaluates dealerships on a wide array of criteria, including customer service, employee training and development, business operations, and community engagement. Simply selling a high volume of units is not enough; the award identifies businesses that represent the industry's best practices from top to bottom. Kunes' inclusion demonstrates a resilience and strategic focus that allows it to thrive even as market dynamics shift.

"Being named to RVBusiness' Top 50 Dealers is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our team's commitment to serving our customers and communities at the highest level," said Mike Coyle, COO of Kunes Auto & RV Group's RV Division, in a statement. "This recognition reinforces our mission to provide exceptional experiences while staying true to our core values of faith, family and giving back."

From a Single Lot to a Regional Powerhouse

Founded in 1996 by Greg Kunes with a single dealership in Delavan, Wisconsin, the Kunes Auto & RV Group has charted an impressive growth trajectory. Over three decades, the company has expanded its footprint to more than 40 automotive and RV locations across Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota. This expansion has been fueled by strategic acquisitions and a reputation for integrating new dealerships into its distinct, values-driven culture.

The group's recent push into the RV sector has been particularly aggressive, solidifying its position as a major regional player. By acquiring established dealerships and bringing them under the Kunes umbrella, the company has been able to quickly scale its operations and inventory, offering a wide selection of recreational vehicles to a growing customer base across the Midwest. This strategic growth, managed while maintaining high operational standards, is a key factor in earning industry-wide accolades.

The Intersection of Profit and Principle

What truly sets Kunes apart in a competitive field is its foundational commitment to its mission of "faith, family, and giving back." This is not merely a marketing slogan but a core operational principle, most notably demonstrated by the company's pledge to donate 10% of its annual net profits to local charities. This significant and consistent philanthropic effort fosters deep roots in the communities its dealerships serve, building a reservoir of goodwill and customer trust that transcends transactional relationships.

This principle-centered approach also extends inward. Kunes Auto & RV Group is a perennial recipient of 'Automotive News' Best Dealerships to Work For' awards. This recognition is largely based on confidential employee surveys, indicating a high level of job satisfaction and a positive workplace culture. By investing in its employees through robust training, comprehensive benefits, and career development opportunities, Kunes fosters a loyal and motivated workforce. Industry analysts often note that a happy and empowered staff is one of the most effective drivers of exceptional customer service, creating a virtuous cycle that benefits employees, customers, and the company's bottom line.

Standing Out in a Crowded Field

The North American RV market is dominated by a mix of national giants like Camping World and General RV Center, alongside strong independent local dealers. In this landscape, Kunes has carved out a unique identity. While competitors may focus on scale and volume, Kunes has built its brand on trust, community partnership, and a proven commitment to its workforce.

This latest award from RVBusiness serves as a powerful testament to the success of their model. It signals to customers, employees, and the industry at large that a business can pursue aggressive growth and financial success without sacrificing its core values. By excelling in the metrics that matter—customer care, employee satisfaction, and community impact—Kunes Auto & RV Group has demonstrated that principled business is not just good ethics, but a powerful strategy for long-term success.