A man has been left with knife wounds to his face and arms after he was attacked at a Craigieburn shopping centre on Wednesday night.
Police have been told the man, who owns a shop at the Stockland Highlands shopping centre on Grand Boulevard, was approached by a man brandishing a knife as he was placing rubbish in the skips at the back of the centre about 6pm.
Police believe the man demanded the shop owner hand over his backpack.
A short struggle ensued and the offender fled the scene on foot empty handed.
The victim was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
The offender is believed to have been wearing a grey hoodie and dark-coloured pants and shoes.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppers.com.au