Police are investigating following the attempted armed robbery of a supermarket in Leichardt this afternoon.

At around 3.30pm a man entered the Toongarra Road business, selected goods and then approached the counter.

He then produced a knife-like, sharpened implement and demanded money from the female attendant.

The staff member screamed and the man fled from the business without receiving any money.

The 33-year-old female staff member was not physically injured during the incident.

Police conducted patrols of the area but were unable to locate the man.

He is described as Caucasian in appearance, of a slim build with a black beard and was last seen wearing a grey beanie, grey hoodie, white t-shirt, dark blue shorts and dark coloured jogging shoes.

Investigations are continuing.