quote: "Despite what sales indicate, the stocking levels are not correct"
zekensted, no offense intended but while you may be correct thinking your PM doesn't know Parts, I think you might not either.
Stocking, or not stocking paint is not a benchmark.
Sales levels have a LOT to do with stock levels (and vis-versa).
Selling cost+ to wholesale can be a very smart thing to do especially with short margin parts. Matrix-ing List to wholesale can get you on the insurance company blacklist (that does not exist).
Matrix is both very smart and very dangerous in the wrong hands. Used improperly you can sell your soul's future for $'s today.
Getting the PM "onboard" doesn't mean he/she has to agree with you. Believe it or not you may be both seeing the big picture but from different angles. However your relationship has to be cooperative and not adversarial.
Oh, BTW. Unlike paint, most coffee mugs aren't HazMat.