Around 6pm, two men – each brandishing guns and wearing stockings over their heads – threatened staff and customers at the Supre discount fashion outlet in Broadmeadows, in the city's north.

They stole cash and clothing and escaped in a vehicle. No shots were fired and no one was injured.

A number plate or description of the vehicle was not recorded.

One hour later, three men – one wielding a sword, another carrying a meat cleaver and the third holding a wooden pole – held up the Dan Murphy's liquor store in the car park of the Burvale Hotel in Nunawading.

They stole the register cash drawer and cigarettes, then fled in a dark-coloured sedan down Burwood Highway.

No one was injured and the heist is not thought to be linked to the Broadmeadows robbery.

Anyone with information about either robbery is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au

mlallo@fairfaxmedia.com.au