It was the fourth time in 10 years South West Tools & Industrial had been targeted by thieves.

Mr Lane said his business had been at their new premises in Rooneys Road for five weeks.

"It's unfortunate we've been targeted again, but we've got the latest state-of-the-art security cameras. The police have been very impressed with the quality of the images we have been able to provide. It's unbelievably clear," he said.

"Our security measures are extremely tight. We've been in our new concrete building five weeks and we were just waiting on new shutters for the front doors. It's frustrating because if they were in place the offenders would have had a lot of trouble getting through."

Mr Lane requested anyone with information about the break-in contact detectives at the Warrnambool police crime investigation unit.

"It's very disappointing. If anyone knows anything please tell the police," he said.

Detective Senior Constable Rachel McMahon, of the Warrnambool police crime investigation unit, said the break-in happened about 5am Sunday at the Rooney Road business.

“Thieves have made off with tools worth thousands of dollars and caused significant damage to the automatic glass doors at the front of the store, which will have to be repaired,” she said.

Acting Sergeant Lana Roberts said the offenders forced their way through the front doors of the business using a glass cutter and an axe.

"Numerous boxes of tools were loaded onto a grey-colored Holden Crewman utility which was fitted with stolen number plates," she said.

"Security camera footage is being examined by investigators. 

The offenders also tried to take a hydraulic wood splitter but left it behind."

Acting Sergeant Roberts requested anyone with information about the burglary contact Detective Senior Constable McMahon or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.