A two dimensional plane-stress finite-element type of analysis is presented to predict the behaviour of geogrids embedded in sand under pullout loading conditions. In the analysis the interactions between soil and geogrid are simulated by non-linear springs. The stiffnesses of the springs can be determined from simple tests in a specially designed pullout box. The proposed finite element (FE) analysis is applied to interpret test results from a large scale pullout test rig. The predicted behaviour of the geogrid under pullout load agrees well with the observed data including the load-displacement properties, the displacement distribution along the longitudinal direction and the mobilisation of the frictional and bearing resistance.