In this feature, filmed during the Restaurants Canada Show, we sit down with Mike Yablon, CEO of EconoLease, to talk about how restaurant owners across Canada can buy and finance equipment more efficiently and affordably.
Who is EconoLease?
EconoLease is Canada’s leading provider of restaurant equipment financing, helping foodservice businesses of all sizes access the tools they need to operate successfully.
With a national dealer network and decades of experience, EconoLease offers financing, leasing, and rental programs that make it easier for restaurateurs, cafés, bakeries, and catering businesses to get started or expand — all while preserving cash flow.
Whether you’re opening your first location or upgrading your kitchen, EconoLease has built its reputation on fast approvals, flexible payment options, and industry expertise.
Key Topics Discussed with Mike Yablon
During our interview, Mike Yablon shared valuable insights for restaurant owners and operators, including:
1. Buying New vs. Used Equipment
Mike discusses the pros and cons of purchasing new versus used restaurant equipment. While used equipment can save on upfront costs, new equipment often offers greater efficiency, warranty protection, and long-term reliability.
2. How Much Financing is Typically Required
Restaurant owners often underestimate how much capital is needed to open or upgrade a kitchen. Mike outlines realistic budgeting expectations and explains how EconoLease helps tailor financing amounts and terms based on each business’s cash flow.
3. What to Ask Your Equipment Dealer
Before signing a deal, Mike encourages operators to ask key questions:
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Does the dealer offer installation and after-sales support?
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Is there a warranty on the equipment?
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What are the delivery timelines and payment structures?
These insights help business owners make informed, financially sound purchasing decisions.
Why Financing Through EconoLease Makes Sense
EconoLease stands out because it truly understands the foodservice industry. Their financing options include:
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Lease-to-own programs with flexible terms
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Short-term equipment rentals for seasonal operations
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Working capital loans for renovations or cash flow needs
With quick approvals and competitive rates, EconoLease empowers restaurateurs to invest in quality equipment without large upfront costs.
Our Take
Whether you’re running a café, bar, or full-service restaurant, the right equipment can make or break your business — and EconoLease makes it attainable. Their combination of industry expertise, fast financing, and nationwide partnerships has made them the go-to provider for Canadian foodservice operators.
Watch the full interview above to learn expert tips on equipment purchasing and financing.
If you are looking to finance any kind of equipment, try our equipment loan calculator today to see your options and estimate payments
Video by:
Vlad is the President and Co-Founder of Smarter Loans, Canada's original and largest loan comparison website. He is a passionate entrepreneur and business leader in the Canadian financial sector. He was selected as a 2019 Top 25 Leaders in Lending by the Canadian Lenders Association. Vlad is an author at Smarter Loans, and has been featured in publications like the Toronto Star and National Post, among others.
