A Touch of Italy, which moved from Valley Junction to West Glen Town Center a year ago, is closing after 10 years of being in business.

Co-owner Paolo Bartesaghi said he and his business partner Mark Pritchard wanted more personal time and to focus on their two stores in the East Village, Accenti and Arte Gallery, which are doing better than their Italian-products store. A Touch of Italy is the second store to close in the shopping district; Salute, a women’s clothing store, was the first.

“After one year,” Bartesaghi said, “we found out it was really difficult for us to take care of three stores.

“It’s possible the cycle of Touch of Italy was finished and for this stuff we have here, wasn’t anymore for the public of Des Moines. Merchandise in the East Village, people appreciate it more.”

Bartesaghi and Prichard began discussions about closing the store near the beginning of this year after a busy holiday season. They posted a sale sign in A Touch of Italy yesterday and have contacted loyal customers. Bartesaghi said they have not set a date when the store will officially close.

All three part-time employees of A Touch of Italy have positions at Accenti and Arte Gallery. Some of the store’s products will be available at the other two stores.

Bartesaghi said the name “A Touch of Italy” could still be used for a different business venture in the future.