March 25 (Reuters) - Fevertree Drinks ( FQVTF ) reported

annual profit a touch above market expectations on Tuesday, as

the tonic maker capitalised on growing demand for non-alcoholic

drinks, but said it expects a "transition year" in 2025 for its

U.S. business.

UK-based Fevertree, known for its cocktail mixers, tonic

water, ginger beers and flavoured sodas, reported an adjusted

core profit of 50.7 million pounds ($65.49 million) for 2024.

That was slightly above analysts' expectations of 50.6

million pounds, as per a company-compiled poll.

The company, which counts the United States as its largest

revenue contributor, recently sold an 8.5% stake to U.S.-based

beer giant Molson Coors ( TAP/A ).

Fevertree said it took a 5 million pound charge related to

the transition to the Molson Coors ( TAP/A ) partnership.

($1 = 0.7742 pounds)