Staff at a service station in Hailsham were robbed by two men wearing balaclavas and wielding an axe on Monday evening.
The men burst into the Hawkswood Service Station, Hawkswood Road, at about 9.10pm on October 29 and threatened a member of staff before making off with the contents of the cash register.
They made off with £1,000 worth of cigarettes as well as a quantity of cash.
Detective Inspector Rob Morland from East Sussex CID said, “The member of staff was on his own and was verbally threatened but fortunately not physically injured.
“Detectives are in the process of viewing CCTV and continuing with forensic examinations. I would appeal to anyone who witnessed this robbery or has any information that could help us with our enquiries to please come forward.
“Your call will be dealt with in the utmost confidence. Please ring 101 quoting serial 1582 of 29/10 or leave a message anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
The suspect holding a short chopping axe is described as white, 6’ 1”, of large stocky build and was wearing a long sleeve hi-vis jacket and surgical gloves. He spoke with a southern accent.
The other suspect who loaded a black sports holdall with the stolen cash and cigarettes is described as white, 5’ 8”, of average build and was dressed all in black.