What we’re hearing from the hospitality industry this Fall

At EconoLease, we’re fortunate to stay in close contact with hospitality operators and equipment dealers across Canada. These ongoing conversations give us a front-row seat to emerging trends, especially as business owners adjust to seasonal shifts and economic realities.

As we head into Fall 2025, a few recurring themes have surfaced. Below are the insights we’re hearing and ideas for how dealers can respond, share value, and continue building trust with their customers.

1. Cash flow is a bigger concern than ever

Even well-performing restaurants are feeling the pinch. Operators are watching every dollar, carefully weighing decisions around equipment upgrades or expansion.

“62% of restaurants in Canada are now operating at a loss or barely breaking even.” (Restaurants Canada)

This shift has moved many from growth-focused strategies to efficiency-driven ones, looking for ways to optimize existing operations rather than take big risks.

What this means for dealers:
It may help to position flexible payment options earlier in the sales process. Rather than waiting for price objections, offering financing up front gives customers confidence to explore solutions, especially when paired with low-commitment options like Rent-Try-Buy or lease. Financing equipment allows customers to keep their cash flow available for tougher times, unexpected expenses and marketing efforts, which can reduce strain on their business long term.

2. Menu simplification is driving equipment re-evaluation

Another trend we’re seeing is the rise of “doing more with less.” Operators are streamlining menus to reduce waste, simplify kitchen workflows, and control labour costs. This often leads to a reassessment of their equipment, phasing out single-purpose gear in favour of multifunctional or space-saving options.

How you can support:
Take a consultative approach. Offer to help customers assess their current lineup and make recommendations based on flexibility, energy savings, or efficiency. Including financing in your quotes, even as a simple “ask us about flexible payment options” note, makes it easier for them to explore their choices.

3. Planning for 2026 starts now

Fall is a common time for operators to begin planning capital upgrades or renovations for the new year. While purchases may not happen immediately, many are actively gathering specs, comparing quotes, and mapping out project timelines for Q1.

Where you come in:
Start those conversations early. Whether it’s offering ballpark estimates, quoting flexible finance options, or helping them get pre-approvals in place, being proactive now positions you as a trusted partner, not just a vendor.

4. Sustainability and efficiency are rising priorities

Between rising energy costs and growing guest expectations, sustainability has become a central theme. Operators are more interested in equipment that reduces utility use, minimizes waste, or aligns with green goals. Many are also working with smaller kitchens or mobile formats, making equipment versatility even more important.

What to offer:
Recommend products that speak to long-term savings: energy-efficient models, waste-reduction features, and systems that align with sustainability goals. If customers are uncertain, flexible financing options like Rent-Try-Buy can allow them to trial equipment before making a long-term commitment.

Tips for dealers navigating fall trends:

Whether you're working with a startup café or a seasoned operator, here are a few simple ways to align your approach with what’s happening in the industry:

• Tailor your outreach. Listen closely to what customers are focused on and align your follow-up accordingly (cash flow, efficiency, sustainability, etc.).
• Make financing part of the conversation. It doesn’t have to be the lead, but including payment flexibility with your quotes or catalogs helps plant the seed.
• Use the tools available. Co-branded assets, marketing materials, and fast pre-approvals from EconoLease can help support your customer conversations without adding friction.

Final thoughts

This Fall, many operators are focused on running leaner, smarter businesses. For equipment dealers, it’s a chance to offer real value, not just through products, but through advice, empathy, and flexibility.

Whether your customer needs to upgrade now, plan for January, or just explore options, showing up with the right tools and insights can go a long way.

If you’d like support positioning flexible financing in your sales process or just want to talk through a customer challenge, we’re here to help.

Connect with our team at EconoLease to learn more.