Probably, but out of sight is out of mind, doubly so when it comes to merchandising. Magazines are meant to be seen cover-on just like an LP, and the shelf space is usually negotiated with the publisher. It's all a science from what I hear; my sis worked as head buyer of independent bookstore chains in Bay Area. She was able to cross the aisle to publishing side and works under an editor, reading the slush pile and making notes and preparing a short list for her superiors; she's now paid to actually read instead of having to do so essentially unpaid as a buyer for multiple stores with different demographics.

There's no good business reason for putting products out of your eye line and out of reach, basically. It's just a shame and the economics of bookselling are so hard, even in a erudite town like SF.