News & Tech

As stores close and the recession digs in a bit deeper some old habits die hard. At least that appears to be the angle a writer takes from the Seattle Times that reports Starbucks has just doled at millions for a new corporate jet. With a 'what recession' attitude the new Starbucks jet has been unveiled and according to that report from the Times and the Stabucks jet is a hottie, a $45 million Gulfstream 550. It's a beautiful plane.

What Recession: Check Out the New Starbucks Jet (Video) Gulfstream 550!

Still, Times business writer Melissa Allison has this, "Starbucks bought a $45 million corporate jet last month at about the same time it told employees that it is reconsidering how much it will match in their 401(k) plans this year."


Ouch! That led to this from Minyanville on MSN, "Oh my, the Seattle Times seems to be in a snit about Starbucks’ (SBUX) decision to buy a new jet." The report notes, "Starbucks ordered the plane 3 years ago and almost certainly would be hit with a stiff cancellation fee for backing out of the deal now.

The information is out there now that the jet has been purchased (See lots of video here). Did Starbucks make a wise choice or will they feel the pressure from consumers. As Starbucks hasn't taken any fun new bailout money, I say let them fly in style and the Gulfstream 550 is style.