Dealer Spotlight:
Brian Dennison

When Brian Dennison was eight years old, his family moved to Central Illinois after acquiring a Chevrolet franchise in Pekin. In 2024, the business celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of serving customers in the area.

Over the years, the dealership has grown both physically and operationally—adding a showroom, expanding the service department, and eventually opening a second location featuring Buick, GMC, and Cadillac. One of the proudest milestones in the dealership’s history came when Brian’s father, Ray Dennison, was recognized as a finalist for the TIME Dealer of the Year Award, which honors new-car dealers for exceptional performance, industry excellence, and community service.

Brian also credits his mother (Patricia) for the support and guidance she provided his father over the years, and for raising six children while he worked nights and weekends building the business.

Brian’s own path into the automotive business began simply. One summer during high school, he asked his dad if there was a job available so he could earn some money and was placed in the detail department. He later worked in the parts department, helped wherever he was needed, and eventually began filling in on the sales floor while still in college.

He quickly discovered he loved the people—the customers, the team environment, and the cars—and especially the chance to work alongside his dad, his uncle Jack, and his brother John. After college, Brian continued selling and later moved into sales management. He also attended the NADA Dealer Academy and steadily prepared himself to become dealer principal by gaining experience in every aspect of the operation.

Family remains at the heart of the dealership today. Brian’s father Ray and uncle Jack—his longtime mentors—still come into the store every day. Community involvement is equally important. From sponsoring Little League teams to supporting local charities and long-standing events like the Pekin Holiday Tournament, the dealership is grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community that has supported them for so many years.

Brian feels fortunate to work side by side with family every day. Today, his son and son-in-law are part of the business, and another son currently in college may join in the future. Looking ahead, Brian focuses on preparing the next generation to lead while ensuring the dealership remains strong. He is proud to represent General Motors and is excited about how the automotive industry continues to evolve.
Active with the Illinois Automobile Dealers Association, Brian also serves on the association’s board of directors and executive board, where he values the opportunity to contribute his perspective and support the organization’s work advocating for Illinois dealers.

Through it all, Brian credits the support of his wife Michelle, his family, and his entire management team and employees as the foundation of the dealership’s success. As he looks to the future, his focus remains the same as it has always been: family, community, and maintaining a business that continues to serve the people of Central Illinois for generations to come.