Driven By Community: Grinnell Motors

“I grew up in a small town and it's important to me to be a partner with the community,” shared Ross. When Ross & Geneva Knobbe took ownership of Grinnell Motors, it wasn’t just another business transaction, it was a commitment to small town connection, community, and customer-first care. 

That commitment serves as a central pillar of how Grinnell Motors chooses to do business. In the month of October, for example, a donation will be made to UnityPoint Health – Grinnell Regional Medical Services for every car they sell. Those dollars will be used to support oncology services close to home. That community first mindset extends across town. “We have also raised $2,000 for local youth sports including Tiger Baseball Softball Club, as well as monetary contributions to the Ahrens Park Foundation.” 

Ross has been in the industry for nearly 20 years and has built his career from the ground up. When asked about the biggest changes, he laughed saying “The biggest thing is that things have never stopped changing! Technology has – and continues – to dramatically change the way we do business. From the introduction of online payment and trade-in calculators, to the vehicles themselves.”

Starting on the sales floor, Ross has worked in several areas including finance management, sales leadership, and general management roles. That journey taught him the facets of the business but most importantly reinforced the values of where he came from. 

“Personal relationships drive everything we do at Grinnell Motors. It's important that we make your experience with us smooth, and that's why one dedicated employee will walk you through the entire purchasing process,” acknowledged Ross. “I can attest to that! When I came in to buy my Jeep, I was in and out in less than an hour and a half with my new vehicle. It was seamless and I really appreciate that as a busy mom,” shared chamber ambassador Desi. “That's our goal – to make the buying experience as smooth as possible for our customers and to make sure they walk out our doors with everything they want in a vehicle,” Ross explained.   

If you don’t see exactly what you're looking for in the lot, it doesn’t mean you go home empty handed. “If customization is an important factor, we will work with you to get exactly what you want. We leverage monthly trade-in networks to source, customize, and deliver the exact make and model requested on both pre-owned and new cars,” shares Ross.

Beyond car sales and maintaining inventory of new and preowned vehicles, Grinnell Motors functions as a full service dealership. Offering a full detailing department, pick up and deliver services around Grinnell, warranty work – honored regardless of where the vehicle was purchased – and general service and maintenance. Next time you’re in the market for a new vehicle or need some routine upkeep done, check out Grinnell Motors.