However I think you might be referring to EastEnders or possibly Coronation Street.
The popular British soap opera, The Merchant, did not air in 2011. However, I assume you are referring to "The Young and the Restless" or possibly another show, but most likely "The Young and the Restless" or "EastEnders" and "Coronation Street" which are all British and have 'street' in their names or similar.
If you could provide more information or context about "merchants," I may be able to provide a more accurate and detailed write-up.
In 2011, several storylines were explored in these shows.