Police are on the hunt for an armed robber who used a drill to hold up a Springvale supermarket this month.

Investigators have been told the balaclava-clad robber walked into the Springvale Road shop about 6.30pm on 17 November.

The man jumped over the counter and threatened staff members with a large drill.

When the shocked female attendants struggled to open the till quickly enough, the robber slapped and punched them.

He then stole a large amount of cash from the till and ran out of the store.

Several staff members chased the man but were unable to catch him.

Dandenong Embona Taskforce detectives are investigating the incident and have released a CCTV image of a man they believe may be able to assist them with their enquiries.