Economic production concepts for greater competitiveness and meeting product demand more rapidly are becoming increasingly important for manufacturers of breathable composites. Raw material is the principal cost-saving possibility. A survey of endues applications in the marketplace is followed by an account of current market requirements with particular reference to Reifen-hauser’s extrusion technological developments. Six features of the product profile are defined. Industrial uses include loft insulation film for the construction industry and the hygiene industry requires soft, breathable, low-weight nonwovens/films with excellent textile properties. Alternative processes are discussed. Cost-saving through direct extrusion is explored. In-line extrusion coating of a nonwoven fabric with the film melt saves at least two production stages compared with the conventional bonding of the film/woven fabric by adhesive application or thermally by calendaring or ultrasonic welding. In-line composite production in a joint venture with BBA (USA) is described. (4 fig).