Snopes is not always 100% correct, but the sources they cite are generally verifiable. If you read the Starbucks case, you can see how these types of rumors get started.
Just look at how many posts in this thread state incorrect information about Target ownership. It would be so easy to check the history of Target stores, but too many are lazy to do that. And people wonder why so many fall for the lies of the left, or the MSM? Fact is most people take alot of what they hear has fact until proven otherwise, rather than having some healthy skepticism about stories that seem far fetched, or a bit too convenient.
I remember reading about the Starbucks thing some time ago, and it got thoroughly hashed out on FR, with the right conclusion being drawn.
I just like to point out now and again that Snopes is not infallible, and anyone can do a Google search themselves, and that the Snopes' founders are self admitted liberals.