The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word CONSORTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
O
N
S
O
R
T
S
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Associates" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case associates = consorts.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does CONSORTS mean?
CONSORTS noun- The spouse of a monarch.
- A husband, wife, companion or partner.
- A ship accompanying another.
- Association or partnership.
- A group or company, especially of musicians playing the same type of instrument.
- Harmony of sounds; concert, as of musical instruments.
- To associate or keep company (with).
- To be in agreement.