Entries to the 2014 Online Retail Industry Awards (ORIAs) opened today, ahead of the gala awards in Sydney on 23 July 2014.

Here is an adjective laden, marketing speak riddled explanation of the awards:

An event designed to shine a spotlight and honour the hard work and expertise of Australia and New Zealand’s vibrant and innovative e-retailing visionaries across 12 distinct categories. Set to  push Beyond All Channels, the ORIAS welcomes to the judging panel a curation of a high-voltage and influential online and multichannel industry experts to help showcase individual commitment to digital retail success and shine a spotlight on achievements within the community. With less than two weeks until online applications close, ORIAS invites businesses to take their mark and register for a chance to hold title as industry leader.

The 2014 categories are: Best New Online Retailer, Best Social Commerce Initiative, Most Innovative Online Retailer, Best Online Retail Marketing Initiative, Best Customer Experience, Best Aggregation Channel, Best Site Optimisation and Design, Best Mile Commerce Site Application, Industry Recognition Awards and Online Retailer of the Year.

Applications to these awards close on 16 May 2014. This awards program is part of the wider Online Retailer Conference and eCommerce Expo, being held in Sydney from 21-23 July 2014.