C.sub.9 to C.sub.11 alkyl benzoates are used as plasticisers for polyvinyl chloride in particular in combination with plasticisers such as di-2-ethyl hexyl phthalate, diisononyl phthalate, di-2-propyl heptyl phthalate, diisodecyl phthalate or di-2-ethyl hexyl terephthalate. The use of the C.sub.9 to C.sub.11 alkyl benzoates provides low viscosity low volatility plasticisers, which are fast fusing with lower hot bench gelation temperature and which can be used to reduce the staining problems associated with use of di-2-ethyl hexyl phthalate and diisononyl phthalate. The low viscosity of the C.sub.9 to C.sub.11 alkyl benzoates allows the formulation of solvent free flexible PVC formulations meeting stringent VOC limitations.