On the back of its non-aclocholic drinks, Berentzen Gruppe AG, the German beverage producer has recorded net profits of €3.3m (US$2.9m) 2001. This compares to a €2.6m profit in 2000, the company announced yesterday.

The company said rising demand for its soft drinks had been a primary driver of the profit growth. Sales in the sector were €42.5m in 2001.

Berentzen saw its turnover rise 1% to €204.6m.

In the fourth quarter Berentzen recorded a 2.3% year-on-year turnover upturn in domestic and foreign market, following a turnover downturn in the first nine months of 2001.