I was in the supermarket the other week and didn't put the divider thing down, because there wasn't one spare.
There were about 4 people in front with 1 item each, each with their little divider in place. The family behind me waited awkwardly until well over half the belt was empty before daring to place their shopping down.
( Mu Dinofiddler, Fri 15 Mar 2013, 13:33, archived)