Designer Eyes Glenroy: Trader loses nearly $30,000 after ram raid

Thieves have rammed a car through the front of a Glenroy small business, fleeing with designer glasses.

Thieves have smashed through the Designer Eyes store in Glenroy. Picture: Kathleen O'Connor/Seven News Melbourne Twitter.

A long-term trader in Melbourne’s northern suburbs will press on despite what he described as “another kick in the guts” for his small business.

Designer Eyes in Glenroy was targeted by thieves in the early hours of Wednesday morning, who used a car to ram-raid the front entrance before stealing about $5000 worth of stock.

Gino Nardella, who has owned Morgan Court store for 20 years, said the true cost would be closer to $30,000 once damage and lost trade was taken into account.

“You press on – what else can you do?” Mr Nardella told Leader on Wednesday, as tradesmen repaired his battered storefront.

“I’m a designer eyewear shop. I’m not going to change what I do,” he said, adding that it was the second time his business has been ramraided in recent years.

Mr Nardella said the insurance process was “not easy” and that he expected his premiums to rise again once his latest claim was settled.

Police urged anyone with information to come forward.

“It is believed a car was crashed into the front of the shop, to gain entry, causing significant damage,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

“It is believed eyewear was taken and an investigation is ongoing.”

Anyone who witnessed the event or has dashcam footage is urged to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.