The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word MEMBERSHIP
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
M
E
M
B
E
R
S
H
I
P
More clues leading to the result MEMBERSHIP
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 = membership.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 MEMBERSHIP mean?
MEMBERSHIP noun- The state of being a member of a group or organization.
- The body of members of an organization.
- The fact of being a member of a set.