Montreal merchants brace for ‘perfect storm’ as playoffs and Grand Prix collide

Montreal merchants are gearing up for what they describe as a “perfect storm” of economic activity this week as the Montreal Canadiens playoff run coincides with the Formula One Grand Prix. Over the next four days, the city is expected to see a surge of visitors, with business owners and tourism officials saying the rare overlap of major events is something they haven’t seen in years. “Grand Prix, the Canadiens — what else do we want? It’s a dream,” said Alain Creton, owner of downtown institution Chez Alexandre et Fils on Peel Street. According to Montreal Centre-Ville group, downtown sales h…