Commercial Ovens Financing Canada

7 minutes
May 31, 2025

In the fast-paced world of Canadian food service, having reliable kitchen equipment is non-negotiable. Whether you’re opening a bakery, upgrading a restaurant, or scaling a catering business, commercial ovens are the workhorses that keep your operation running. However, high-quality ovens often come with price tags ranging from a few thousand up to tens of thousands of dollars. Paying cash upfront can strain your budget—especially if you’re juggling rent, payroll, and ingredients.

That’s where commercial oven financing comes in. With the right equipment loan or lease, you can preserve your working capital, enjoy predictable monthly payments, and upgrade to energy-efficient models as your business grows. At Mehmi Financial Group, we specialize in helping Canadian chefs, restaurateurs, and food entrepreneurs access tailored financing solutions—whether you need a single deck oven for your bakery or a multi-rack convection oven for a busy commissary.

Why Finance Your Commercial Oven?

Preserve Cash Flow

When you finance your oven, you pay a fixed monthly amount instead of draining your savings. This keeps cash available for daily needs such as:

  • Purchasing ingredients and supplies
  • Covering staff wages and payroll taxes
  • Marketing campaigns to attract new customers
  • Utility bills and insurance premiums

By preserving working capital, you can respond quickly to unexpected expenses—like emergency repairs or special ingredient orders—without disrupting operations.

Upgrade Flexibility

Technology in commercial ovens evolves rapidly. Modern models often include features that slash energy costs, improve bake consistency, and increase capacity. Financing allows you to:

  • Swap to Energy-Efficient Models: As gas or electricity rates change, you can upgrade to ovens with better insulation, convection airflow, or programmable controls.
  • Expand Capacity: If a single-deck oven limits production, financing lets you add a second oven or step up to a multi-rack unit without a large lump-sum outlay.
  • Stay Competitive: Restaurants and bakeries that advertise wood-fired steam ovens, combi ovens, or smart convection systems attract more customers. Financing keeps you on the cutting edge.

Tax Advantages

Many commercial oven financing and lease agreements offer tax benefits:

  • Interest Deduction: The interest portion of your loan payments is generally tax-deductible as a business expense.
  • Capital Cost Allowance (CCA): Equipment financed through term loans or leasing can be depreciated annually under Canadian tax rules. Consult your accountant to maximize eligible deductions.

Predictable Monthly Payments

Unlike fluctuating utility or ingredient costs, financing your oven locks in a consistent monthly payment. This predictability helps you:

  • Budget Accurately: Know exactly how much to set aside each month for oven financing, avoiding surprises.
  • Plan for Growth: With a stable payment schedule, you can forecast cash flow and decide when to hire new staff or launch a marketing campaign.

Who Can Benefit from Commercial Oven Financing?

Start-Up Bakeries and Retail Kitchens

If you’re launching a bakery, food truck, or dark kitchen, you likely need a commercial oven before you open your doors. Financing helps you acquire equipment when your revenue is still low.

Established Restaurants and Cafés

An aging oven can slow down production, produce inconsistent results, and drive up energy bills. Financing allows you to swap out a dated deck oven for a high-efficiency combi or convection model without disrupting cash flow.

Catering Businesses and Commissaries

Catering companies often face seasonal demand—busy wedding seasons in summer, quieter months in winter. Financing helps you maintain capacity during peak times and pay off equipment costs when revenue dips.

Franchise Owners

If you operate multiple locations, financing commercial ovens across all sites can streamline your equipment standards and simplify maintenance. Lease-to-own options let you spread costs evenly across each location.

Commercial Oven Financing Options in Canada

1. Equipment Leasing

How It Works:

  • You lease the oven for a fixed term (often 24–60 months).
  • Monthly payments cover depreciation and interest.
  • At lease-end, you have the option to purchase at a residual value, renew the lease, or upgrade to a newer model.

Key Advantages:

  • Low or No Down Payment: Many leases require minimal upfront cash, making them ideal for startups.
  • Maintenance Packages: Some leases include maintenance and repair coverage, reducing unexpected costs.
  • Upgrade Flexibility: At term-end, you can swap to a newer oven with cutting-edge features.

Considerations:

  • No Ownership Until Buyout: Unless you exercise the purchase option, you don’t own the oven.
  • Usage Limits: Leases may restrict usage hours or require regular inspections to avoid penalties.

Learn more about leasing options on our Equipment Leasing Loans page.

2. Term Loans (Equipment Financing)

How It Works:

  • You borrow a lump sum to purchase the oven.
  • The oven itself serves as collateral, simplifying approval.
  • Repay over a fixed term (often 36–60 months) with predictable interest and principal payments.

Key Advantages:

  • Ownership at Term-End: Once paid off, the oven is fully yours to keep or sell.
  • Depreciation Deductions: Claim Capital Cost Allowance on the asset each year.
  • Competitive Rates: Secured by collateral, term loans often carry lower interest rates (8–15% APR) compared to unsecured alternatives.

Considerations:

  • Down Payment: Many lenders require 10–20% down based on credit profile.
  • Equipment Condition: Loans for used ovens may have slightly higher interest rates to account for depreciation.

Discover how equipment financing works on our Equipment Line of Credit page.

3. Sale-Leaseback Financing

How It Works:

  • If you already own your commercial oven, you can sell it to Mehmi Financial Group and immediately lease it back.
  • You receive a lump-sum cash payment based on the oven’s current market value.
  • Monthly lease payments allow continued use of the oven without interruption.

Key Advantages:

  • Unlock Equity: Convert an owned asset into working capital without moving to new equipment.
  • Off-Balance-Sheet Financing: Sale-leaseback may improve balance sheet metrics by reducing debt ratios.
  • Quick Access to Funds: Typically faster than refinance or sale to a third party.

Considerations:

  • Loss of Ownership: You no longer own the oven, so you must meet lease obligations to retain use.
  • Market Value Fluctuations: The amount you receive depends on the oven’s age, condition, and market demand.

For details on sale-leaseback, contact our Equipment Financing Specialists.

4. Start-Up Friendly Options

If your bakery, café, or ghost kitchen is brand new, you may not yet have a revenue history or business credit. Mehmi Financial Group partners with lenders who offer specialized startup financing:

  • No-Fee Application: Some lenders waive origination fees for new businesses.
  • Flexible Credit Criteria: Acceptable credit scores as low as 600 with business plans that demonstrate viability.
  • Personal Credit-Based Loans: Using the owner’s credit profile to qualify, with minimal down payment requirements.

Learn more about our startup equipment financing on the Small Business Financing page.

How to Qualify for Commercial Oven Financing

1. Prepare a Solid Business Plan

  • Executive Summary: Briefly describe your concept: bakery, restaurant, or catering kitchen.
  • Market Analysis: Highlight local demand, competitor offerings, and target demographics.
  • Revenue Projections: Show realistic sales forecasts based on baked goods pricing, seat turnover, or catering contracts.
  • Expense Budget: Include oven cost, rent, staff wages, and ingredient estimates to demonstrate viable margins.

A clear plan reassures lenders you understand your market and can generate enough cash flow to make monthly payments.

2. Check Your Credit Score

  • Personal Score: If you’re a sole proprietor or startup, lenders often rely on your personal credit. Aim for a score of 650 or higher to secure more competitive rates.
  • Business Score: For established operations, maintain a business credit score of 75+ by paying vendors and existing loans on time.

Review your credit reports on Equifax and TransUnion to correct any errors before applying.

3. Gather Required Documentation

Have these documents ready as clear digital files (PDF or high-resolution scans):

  1. Business Registration: Articles of incorporation, partnership agreement, or business license.
  2. Financial Statements: Profit & Loss statements and balance sheets for the past 12 months (if available).
  3. Bank Statements: Last 3–6 months showing consistent deposits and cash flow.
  4. Tax Returns: Business and personal returns for the last two years (if incorporated).
  5. Identification: Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport) and Social Insurance Number (SIN).
  6. Equipment Quotes: Detailed quotes or pro forma invoices for the commercial oven(s) you plan to finance.

Providing complete documentation speeds up the underwriting process and leads to quicker approvals.

4. Compare Lender Options

  • Traditional Banks & Credit Unions:
    • Requirements: Credit score 650+, at least 12 months in business, proof of revenue.
    • Rates: 8–12% APR for established businesses.
    • Turnaround: 1–2 weeks for approval and funding.
  • Online Lenders & Fintech:
    • Requirements: Credit score 600+, 6 months in business (or strong personal credit for startups).
    • Rates: 12–25% APR.
    • Turnaround: 24–72 hours for approval; funds in 1–3 business days.
  • Specialty Equipment Lenders:
    • Requirements: Typically accept lower credit scores if you provide a down payment or key money.
    • Rates: 10–18% APR, depending on oven age and condition.
    • Turnaround: 3–5 business days once documentation is complete.

Pre-qualify with multiple lenders to view estimated rates and payment schedules without affecting your credit score. Mehmi Financial Group can facilitate this comparison process to identify the best fit for your budget.

5. Submit a Complete Application

  • Accurate Entries: Fill in all requested fields carefully, ensuring names, addresses, and revenue figures match your documents.
  • Upload Files: Label each PDF clearly (e.g., “Oven_Quote_May2025.pdf” or “P&L_2024.pdf”).
  • Cover Letter: Include a brief overview explaining how the oven financing integrates into your business strategy (e.g., increasing production for wholesale accounts).

Being thorough and organized shows lenders you’re serious and ready to move forward.

6. Respond Promptly to Follow-Up Requests

After submission, lenders may request additional information—updated bank statements, proof of insurance, or clarification on your business plan. Responding within 24–48 hours keeps your application on track and can lead to same-day or next-day approval.

7. Review and Sign the Loan or Lease Agreement

  • Confirm Key Terms: Verify loan amount, interest rate (APR), term length, payment schedule, and any associated fees (origination, processing, or late payment).
  • Check for Hidden Costs: Look for prepayment penalties or maintenance obligations you may not have anticipated.
  • Sign Electronically: Many lenders offer e-signature for rapid completion. If a paper signature is required, sign, scan, and email back promptly.

8. Receive Funds or Take Delivery of Your Oven

  • Funds Disbursement: If you opted for a term loan or sale-leaseback, funds typically deposit within 1–3 business days after signing.
  • Equipment Delivery: Once financing is secured, arrange for delivery, installation, and any required inspections or certifications.

After the oven is in place, begin using it immediately to drive revenue—whether for bakery production, restaurant service, or catering orders.

Tips for Managing Your Commercial Oven Financing Successfully

  • Choose the Right Oven for Your Needs: Don’t finance more capacity than you require. For a small bakery, a single-deck convection oven may suffice; a large commissary might need a double-stacked convection/steamer unit.
  • Negotiate the Best Deal: Compare quotes from multiple suppliers. Even a 5% discount on a $20,000 oven saves $1,000 over the lease or loan term.
  • Monitor Energy Costs: Track utility bills before and after installation. A high-efficiency oven may save you 10–15% on gas or electricity over older models, offsetting financing costs.
  • Maintain Regular Service: Adhere to manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules. Many leases require proof of servicing to avoid penalties. Proper upkeep extends oven life and preserves resale value.
  • Plan for Replacement Upgrades: If your lease term is 48 months, start evaluating new models six months before lease-end. This allows time to compare financing offers and avoid downtime.

FAQ for Commercial Oven Financing in Canada

1. What is commercial oven financing and how does it work in Canada?
Commercial oven financing provides a loan or lease to purchase professional-grade ovens—convection, deck, combi, or steamer—over a set term. You can choose:

  • Equipment Leasing: Lease-to-own with minimal down payment and options to upgrade or purchase at term-end.
  • Term Loan (Equipment Financing): Borrow a lump sum secured by the oven’s value, repayable over 36–60 months.
  • Sale-Leaseback: Sell your existing oven and lease it back to gain immediate capital while retaining use.

Approval depends on credit score, business history, and revenue. Once approved, funds deposit in 1–3 business days; you then finalize purchase and arrange delivery and installation.

2. Who qualifies for commercial oven financing in Canada?

  • New Businesses (Startups): Many lenders accept personal credit scores as low as 600 if you provide a clear business plan and reasonable down payment.
  • Established Restaurants & Bakeries: Requirements generally include at least 12 months in business, a business credit score of 75+, and consistent revenue.
  • Catering & Commissary Kitchens: Lenders look for seasonal revenue projections and may offer flexible payments to align with busy months.
  • Franchise Operators: Demonstrable cash flow and existing franchise financials can fast-track approval.

Different lenders have varying criteria; Mehmi Financial Group can match you to the best partner based on your profile.

3. What are the benefits of financing a commercial oven instead of buying outright?

  • Preserve Cash Flow: Spread the cost over months, keeping cash available for daily needs.
  • Upgrade Flexibility: Leases allow you to upgrade at term-end to newer, energy-efficient models without a large lump-sum outlay.
  • Tax Advantages: Claim interest as a business expense and depreciate the asset under CCA rules.
  • Predictable Budgeting: Fixed monthly payments simplify forecasting.
  • Rapid Approval: Many lenders and fintech platforms fund within 24–72 hours, avoiding long waits for cash.

4. What types of financing options does Mehmi Financial Group offer for commercial ovens?

  • Equipment Leasing: Lease-to-own solutions with low or no down payment, maintenance packages, and upgrade options.
  • Term Loans (Equipment Financing): Lump-sum loans secured by the oven’s value, typically repayable over 36–60 months at competitive rates.
  • Sale-Leaseback: Unlock equity from existing ovens to fund other growth areas while continuing to use the equipment.
  • Startup-Friendly Programs: Financing for new businesses with flexible credit criteria, requiring only personal credit as collateral.

5. How fast can I get approved for commercial oven financing with Mehmi Financial Group?

  • Online Lenders & Fintech Partners: Approval in 24–48 hours with funds disbursed in 1–3 business days.
  • Credit Unions & Community Banks: Approval in 3–5 business days after full documentation; funds disbursed in 1–2 business days post-approval.
  • Traditional Banks: Approval in 1–2 weeks for established businesses with strong credit; disbursement within 3–5 business days after signing.

Mehmi Financial Group streamlines the process by pre-qualifying you with multiple lenders, ensuring you receive the quickest and most competitive financing solution.

Your kitchen can’t afford downtime—and neither can your business. If you need a new convection, deck, or combi oven, let Mehmi Financial Group find the best financing plan for you. We partner with over 30 lenders across Canada to offer:

  • Fast approvals in as little as 24 hours
  • Flexible lease-to-own and term loan options
  • Start-up friendly programs with minimal down payment
  • Sale-leaseback solutions to unlock existing equity

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll help you get the commercial oven you need without straining your cash flow.

Apply Now or Contact Us for your personalized financing quote!

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