GREAT BEND, Kan. — Three years ago, Javier Alvarez started GB Auto LLC with a 2008 Jeep Patriot, a desire to help people, and, as he puts it, “a lot of hope.”
Today, the Great Bend used-car dealership has grown into a business selling more than 150 vehicles annually, serving customers across Kansas and neighboring states, and continuing to add services designed to make life easier for its customers.
Alvarez had already spent several years selling vehicles when he decided to build something of his own. With the help of a line of credit from a local bank, he gradually added inventory and began growing GB Auto.
The journey hasn’t been without challenges.
“I have learned a lot from really expensive mistakes — and I’m still learning,” Alvarez said. “But I have always enjoyed talking to people, listening to their needs and looking for the best solution. I really enjoy what I do and helping people along the way.”
That customer-first approach has become a defining part of GB Auto. The locally owned dealership offers pre-owned cars, trucks and SUVs, financing options for a variety of credit situations, tire sales and detailing. Alvarez said the goal isn’t simply to sell someone a vehicle, but to build relationships through a friendly, no-pressure experience.
The business has also developed a personality of its own through its mascot, Pickles, and the slogan, “Where Every Deal is a Steal.” GB Auto was voted Best Used Car Dealer in Great Bend in 2024 and 2025 based on Google Reviews.
While GB Auto primarily serves the local and regional market, its reach has extended beyond Kansas, with customers from Oklahoma, Missouri, Colorado and Texas.
And Alvarez isn’t finished growing. GB Auto is preparing to expand its car-cleaning services with a convenience-focused option that will allow customers to have their vehicle picked up from their workplace, cleaned and returned the same day.
The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce recently joined Alvarez and the GB Auto team to recognize the company’s third anniversary with a ribbon cutting. More than marking a business milestone, the celebration highlighted the kind of entrepreneurial growth that strengthens the local economy.
GB Auto’s story connects directly with the Chamber’s Elevate GBK Beyond Today strategic plan and its focus on Business & People Retention. Supporting locally owned businesses as they establish roots, adapt, invest and grow helps create a stronger business environment and a community where entrepreneurs have the opportunity to turn an idea into a sustainable enterprise.
For Alvarez, reaching the three-year mark represents the long days, lessons learned and determination it took to get there.
“Not every day is perfect, but I try to look for the best in each one,” Alvarez said. “Today, compared to three years ago, we are doing better, and we will continue improving. This means a lot because of all the hard work and long days we had to go through to be here.”
Find GB Auto LLC
Address: 5319 10th St., Great Bend, KS 67530
Phone: 620-797-7440
Email: [email protected]
Website: gbautosalesllc.com
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Social Media: Find GB Auto LLC on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
