Montreal Canadiens' slump quiets bars, hurts jersey sales

The Montreal Canadiens' downhill spiralhasn't only been devastating for fans' morale it's also hurting the bottom line of businesses across the city.

The most recent loss, Tuesdayagainst Columbus, dropped the team to5-18-1 in their last 24 gamesafter starting the season on a dominant19-4-3 run.

But things could even get worse if the slide continues, and the Habs fail to make the playoffs.

"We are concerned about the playoff run,"Keith Murray, assistant general manager at Hockey Experts inDollard-des-Ormeaux, told CBC Montreal's Daybreak.

"Unless they turn it around real fast, our playoff business won't exist."

Fortunately, Murray said,Habs' jerseys and other gear account foronly a small portion of the sporting-goods store's revenue.

"For stores that sell just licensed Habs'products, it's a major concern," he said.

No need for extra restaurant staff

Montreal bars and restaurants are also hurting.

Normally, TobyLyle books extra staff ongame nights at his two popular pubs,Bishop &Baggand Burgundy Lion. But during the recent slump, that hasn't been necessary.

"We've definitely had a lot less interest," he toldDaybreak.

No one even complained when staff forgot to turn on the TV during one of the team's latest losses to Columbus, he said.

Like Murray, Lyle said the big concern is whether the Habs can make it to the post-season.

"Moving forward, I'm much more nervous about April, May, June," he said.

"When the Habs are in the playoffs, it's huge," he said."You turn people away no matter what day of the week it is."