I can’t stand ‘em either.
What I really hate is when I get up to the checkout, and have to use my debit card, the people in line behind me will sometimes be right up next to me. Now I always push a cart, and in the line, keep it behind, so I at least have a small buffer zone.
If I have to use my debit card, I use it as a credit card when there are people in my space.
If someone gets pushy, I’ll usually turn around and ask them if I’m in their way. Or apologize, saying, “I’m sorry ~~ I didn’t mean to get pushy.”
It usually works wonders. Especially since I’m 5’9”. ;o])