Here are the key points about W.L. Gore & Associates:
- Founded in 1958 by Wilbert L. Gore after discovering a new form of PTFE at DuPont.
- Headquartered in Newark, Delaware and employs over 9,000 associates worldwide.
- Known for Gore-Tex fabric which is waterproof, windproof and breathable.
- Uses an egalitarian organizational culture with no titles, managers, or hierarchies. Employees are called "associates."
- Decision making is decentralized and teams are self-managed. Associates can propose new projects and recruit others.
- Flat structure encourages innovation as associates have freedom to experiment.
- Company has experienced significant growth and success