A masked man took an axe to a shelf and smashed several bottles at a convenience store in Prittlewell during an attempted robbery on Saturday.
Police said nothing was taken during the incident, which took place at around 10.40pm at the premises in East Street.
The suspect is described as tall, white and of skinny build.
DS Tanya Bailey said: "He was wearing quite distinctive, smart clothing including a pink long sleeved shirt, a hooded jacket, black trousers and shiny patent type shoes and was wearing a grey mask.
"I hope someone may recognise him from this description and will contact detectives at Southend."
Anyone with information should contact Southend CID on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
