Suspicious fruit shop fire believed to be linked to string of arson attacks in Melbourne

Detectives believe an early morning fire at a fruit and vegetable store in Melbourne's north could be linked to ongoing disputes involving Middle Eastern crime groups and bikies.

Hadfield Finest Fruit & Veg, on the corner of East and Middle streets in Hadfield, was "significantly damaged" after the fire about 3.10am.

Police believe the "suspicious" fire started inside a car before it spread to the shop.

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A Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) spokesperson said a car had reversed into the fruit shop before it caught fire.

The two-storey shop was damaged by the impact and subsequent blaze, including its roller doors and glass windows.

An LPG canister was also discovered in the back of the car.

Police said they believe the fire is likely linked to at least 10 attacks at tobacco stores dating back to March, causing damage to shops in Springvale, Moonee Ponds, Deer Park, Wodonga and Wangaratta.

The most recent was on August 11, when a tobacco store in Hoppers Crossing went up in flames.

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Detective Inspector Chris Murray described the incident as dangerous.

"The Arson and Explosives Squad will be looking at all possible motives for this fire, and we have strong avenues of enquiry to identify the offenders," he said.

"This is inherently dangerous behaviour and I want to assure the public that police will not tolerate such blatant and dangerous criminal conduct in our communities."

No one was inside the shop at the time of the incident.

Police are investigating the suspicious fire and appealing for witnesses.