He considered a move to Auckland or Hamilton but then Pak'nSave Tauranga's Glenn Cotterill indicated he was selling to take up an opportunity in Auckland.
This was the new challenge Mr Waddell was looking for, and he takes ownership of the Cameron Road store today.
Mr Waddell inherits a major renovation that will result in Pak'nSave expanding floor space and upgrading facilities.
In addition, the building is receiving a makeover, most notably a large glass frontage that will allow more natural light in.
The store's renovations will come with a change in workplace culture.
"There will definitely be a culture shift, and that will be a positive thing," he told the Bay of Plenty Times.
"There's some very good people in that business but every owner has their own style and that generally forms the culture of the business going forward."
Mr Waddell said his personal style was "friendliness".
"Treat people as you'd like to be treated, that's pretty important, whether it be customers, suppliers, that would sum it up. We all have to work so if we can have a bit of fun along the way and do the job well, that's better than walking around with long faces and pissed off that we have to be there."
Mr Waddell is sad to leave Brookfield but looking forward to his new challenges.
His family members, who also have a long association with Brookfield, have accepted the changes positively.
"If you look at the family history, there's been lots of supermarkets.
"There's been Maungatapu Four Square, there's been Saveway downtown, Save More up here where Wendys is, then there's been Brookfield New World, so I kind of feel I'm adding to the family history by adding another opportunity."
Pak'nSave upgrade
New-look frontage, with plenty of natural light.
An extra 561sq m of retail space.
Expanded area for fresh foods, including produce, bakery and seafood.
Carparks will also be upgraded.
Nearly all parts of the store will be upgraded.
