from Michael Babad of the Globe and Mail,

“The opening of National Hockey League training camps … will be welcomed by a range of Canadian businesses including stadiums, bars and clothing retailers,” associate economist Alexander Lowy said in a weekly report on Canada by Moody’s Analytics, a sister company to the well-known ratings agency.

“Canada’s favourite professional sport often has a measurable impact on economic activity,” he said, noting part-time employment as arenas hire, and the boost for food and shelter as “fans gather in bars and restaurants” to take in the games.

In Canada, the total output in sports and performing arts is “particularly tied” to hockey, Mr. Lowy said.

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