I've been posting this stuff while at work (& my co-partner in IT is off today) so I didn't have the chance to add my own thoughts on this.
I would think that places like Tire Rack move enough tires that this shouldn't be an issue for our cars BUT, like anything else, knowledge is power. At least we can all be aware of what to look for & raise holy heck if we get sold old product! I know I've brushed 130+ several times & I want to be reasonably assured that my tires aren't going to blow up while I'm doing it!!!