trying not to be sceptical but a retailer usually recommends what he will make the most profit on
a good tyre that is frequantly requested/recommended will have a small profit margin because of the competition, where as the unknown tyre can be priced for maximum profit as purchases are led into beleiving they are getting a bargain, because of its price undercutting the higher priced ones
not to say they are not of good quality, nor that your mate isnt 100% genuine
:)