I think the local factors have a lot to do with what quality the parts are that are bought by us, Last week I rang for a certain part and was told it was not in stock but they did have 23 of the cheaper cr*p ones in stock. The choice for the customer is wait 2 days for a good part or have a lot cheaper part now, as we are in a rural area with very poor public transport you can guess which part was wanted.

The next step is statistics will show their buyer that the cheap parts are in demand, hence 23 in stock. What it should show is that it was a second choice part.

Graham