Sometimes you need to think outside of the box my friend
Think about this-Stern's business model has changed substantially over the last decade or so. What used to be a operator dominated industry has been split by the discovery of home pinball ownership. What does this mean? Well it means Stern needs to conform to adapt to this new customer that does not have the same needs or desires of an operator. I disagree that people will not 'See it' if not located on the apron. With some huge Stern advertising stickers included in the coinbox-you could paste all over the coin door if you wanted to. Now if you are a homeowner and have no need for the ugly advertising and would prefer a more clean look-you have a choice.
Stern could easily provide a 'Kit' that would retro-fit the desire of the operator v.s. homeowner. Really quite simple-have a cut-out underneath apron for optional install(just remove decal), and a small square plate for coin door option(probably cost dimes to produce in bulk).
Now Stern could take the route of not caring what their potential customers think and shove it down their throats whether they like it or not-it makes business sense. Or they could provide a retro kit that appeases everyone(for a minimum cost).
Chances are they may do nothing if people do not speak up. You can follow the sheep with your head down or speak up. Honestly if Stern would just provide cover up art and actual cards to match the theme that would be a good start. At the end of the day people may have to rely on the modders to move and cover up which is sad to me. C' mon Gary