a slatwall panel comprises a backboard and a slatwall channel attached to the backboard . the slatwall channel includes a longitudinal horizontal slot , and opposing longitudinal first and second grooves parallel to the slot . first and second substrates include edge portions disposed in the first and second grooves , respectively . the slot includes a rear wall , a bottom wall and a top wall forming a u - shaped groove . the bottom wall is slanted downwardly toward the rear wall ; and the u - shaped groove is configured to receive a shelf wherein the top wall provides a stop to a top rear portion of the shelf and a front portion of the bottom wall provides support to a bottom rear portion of the shelf .