Are LTE sims really different? I remember them saying you needed a 3G sim when the 3G service first came out... I continued to use my Sim card from 2001 with my iPhone 3G/3GS, and it would have probably still worked in the iPhone 4 if i had cut it down.
LTE Sims have a larger storage capacity compared to non LTE Sims. Im not sure how that enables faster speeds but I know the billing system will not auto provision an account for LTE access without an LTE sim.
Rogers+ will give you a free SIM when doing a HUP or New activation. All other situations its $10
If it's not a Rogers store then they shouldn't be putting a big red Rogers sign in front. If you put a Rogers sign you're a Rogers store and have to accept what comes with it, if not put up your own third party sign or dealer sign.
Goto a Rogers store - not a Rogers store Get a free sim card - it's $10 It's available in your area - It's not really available right now.