W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. is a manufacturing company that specializes in advanced materials and products. The company was founded in 1958 by Wilbert L. Gore and Robert W. Gore and is headquartered in Newark, Delaware. W. L. Gore & Associates is known for its innovative products, including Gore-Tex fabric, which is used in outdoor clothing and footwear. The company also produces medical devices, electronic components, and industrial products. W. L. Gore & Associates has operations in over 30 countries and is a privately held company.