New Zealand distributor Mistral Software has merged to become a division of Soft Solutions, but it’s business as usual during the transition.

The New Zealand distributor for Nuance Communications speech and imaging solutions, Mistral Software has represented the Nuance brand since 1998, and its staff have been involved with the products even longer.

For the Managing Director of Mistral Software, Megan Twentyman, the change is bitter-sweet: “This has been my baby for more than 11 years, but for family reasons I need to step back from the daily responsibility of running Mistral, and I know that Chris and his team at Soft Solutions will continue the quality of representation that the Nuance brand deserves.”

For his part Chris Fitzgerald, the Managing Director of Soft Solutions said:  “We have sub-distributed the Nuance brand for a number of years into the VAR market, but this will be our first foray into direct retail. Change is good, and this new channel will enhance the value that Soft Solutions offers for all of our vendors.”

Twentyman will remain at Soft Solutions in a part-time capacity to manage the brand and up-skill employees in retail management. Mistral Software’s South Island rep Janette Cannell will also remain, with Chris Leslie joining the team to look after North Island retail customers.

Vicki Rigg, the Nuance Communications, Channel Sales Manager, APAC, is positive about the change: “Mistral Software has been a proactive distributor in the New Zealand market for 11 years. This recent development is an opportunity for everyone concerned. The change will benefit our channel partners dramatically. I feel that with Megan’s assistance, combined with the Soft Solutions business model, we can drive sales to record levels.”